Arenal Council of the Polytechnic

Overview

Ammattikorkeakoulujen rehtorineuvosto Arene, known in English as the Arenal Council of the Polytechnic, is the Rectors' Conference of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences. Established in 1996, Arene is a non-profit organisation that represents all 24 Finnish universities of applied sciences (UAS) and their rectors. Its primary mission is to advocate for the collective interests of these institutions and to support their development in the Finnish higher education landscape. Arene serves as a central forum for collaboration, policy development and strategic planning within the UAS sector.

History and Legal Framework

The establishment of Finnish universities of applied sciences dates back to the early 1990s, with the first polytechnics operating on a trial basis in 1991/92. By 1996, these institutions were formalised and the Arene was founded to represent them. The legal framework governing UASs is outlined in Finnish legislation, which mandates their participation in external evaluations of their activities and quality systems. This legislative environment ensures that UASs operate with accountability and are subject to continuous quality improvement processes.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

Arene's mission is to promote high-quality, working-life oriented higher education and research, development and innovation (RDI) activities within Finnish UASs. Its vision is to strengthen the role of UASs in renewing working life and regional development. Arene aims to:

• Enhance cooperation and networking among UASs
• Support the internationalisation of UASs within the European Higher Education Area
• Advocate for favourable operating conditions for UASs
• Communicate the impact of UASs' core tasks on society and the economy

These objectives align with Finland's broader higher education strategy, which emphasises the importance of UASs in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Governance, Structure and Independence

Arene operates as a network organisation with a governance structure comprising:

• Board of Directors: Responsible for strategic oversight and decision-making.
• Rectors' Council: Composed of the rectors of all member UASs, meeting approximately ten times a year to discuss current issues and draft common policies.

The organisation is independent and non-partisan, ensuring that it can effectively represent the interests of UASs without external influence. Its activities are guided by a set of rules that outline the rights and responsibilities of its members.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

Finnish legislation requires higher education institutions, including UASs, to participate in external evaluations of their activities and quality systems. The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC) is the independent agency responsible for conducting these evaluations. FINEEC's audits focus on various aspects of UAS operations, including governance, teaching quality and societal impact. These evaluations are integral to maintaining and enhancing the quality of higher education in Finland.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

Arene actively engages in international cooperation to promote the interests of Finnish UASs on the global stage. It is a member of several international networks, including:

• UAS4EUROPE: A European network representing UASs, where Arene holds a two-year presidency.
• Team Finland Knowledge (TFK): A network supporting Finnish universities and research centres in international partnerships.

Through these memberships, Arene facilitates the internationalisation of Finnish UASs, enabling them to collaborate on research, development and educational initiatives across borders.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

Arene's influence on Finnish higher education is significant and continues to grow. By advocating for the interests of UASs, it plays a crucial role in shaping policies that affect the sector. Its efforts in promoting international cooperation and quality assurance contribute to the global competitiveness of Finnish higher education. Looking forward, Arene aims to further strengthen the position of UASs in the evolving educational landscape, ensuring that they remain responsive to the needs of society and the economy.

Summary

Arene is a pivotal organisation in the Finnish higher education sector, representing all universities of applied sciences in the country. Through its advocacy, governance and international engagement, Arene supports the development and enhancement of UASs, ensuring that they continue to provide high-quality, relevant education and research. Its ongoing efforts are instrumental in maintaining Finland's reputation as a leader in higher education.

FAQs

• What is Arene?
  Arene is the Rectors' Conference of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences, a non-profit organisation representing all 24 UASs in Finland.
• When was Arene established?
  Arene was founded in 1996 to represent the interests of Finnish UASs.
• What is Arene's mission?
  Arene's mission is to promote high-quality, working-life oriented higher education and RDI activities within Finnish UASs.
• How does Arene support UASs?
  Arene supports UASs by advocating for their interests, facilitating cooperation and engaging in international networks.
• What role does Arene play in quality assurance?
  Arene collaborates with FINEEC to ensure that UASs participate in external evaluations of their activities and quality systems.
• Is Arene involved in international cooperation?
  Yes, Arene is a member of international networks such as UAS4EUROPE and Team Finland Knowledge, promoting the internationalisation of Finnish UASs.

Organization Name

Arenal Council of the Polytechnic
Ammattikorkeakoulujen rehtorineuvosto Arene

Acronym

ARENE

Year of Establishment

1996

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

25

Address

North Makasiinikatu 7 A 2
Helsinki
00130 Uusimaa Finland

Phone

040 766 7805

Fax

n.a.

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Wikipedia Article

Arenal Council of the Polytechnic's Wikipedia article

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