Helsinki Needs Broader and More Determined Solutions to Prevent Segregation

“It’s great that several politicians have recently addressed the situation in the education sector, but it’s crucial to recognize that this alone is not enough. We need citywide actions,” says Deputy Mayor Johanna Laisaari.

Reducing inequality is an ongoing effort within the education sector. A key operational model is need-based funding based on data and research, directed towards kindergartens, schools, and educational institutions where it is most needed. The goal is to enhance educational equity for children.

In January 2024, the Education and Training Board decided that the sector will use shared criteria for distributing need-based funding regionally. In addition, Helsinki supports teachers by bringing other professionals into schools. Currently, schools employ youth workers, school coaches, and multicultural guides. An area-based equality supplement has been established to support employee salaries, which will be paid for two years.

“Monitoring the investments made now and evaluating their impact is essential to gather information on how need-based funding functions as a measure to prevent inequality,” Laisaari states.

The regional disparities in Helsinki cannot be mitigated solely through kindergartens and schools. However, public discussions often revolve around city services.

“This may be because it’s easier and quicker to seek solutions through kindergartens and schools than through planning and housing policy,” Laisaari assesses.

“We must develop neighborhoods, ensure affordable housing throughout the city, and take care that the forms of housing in any given area do not become too uniform, whether it involves ownership, rental housing, or other living arrangements. The stability of services in the regions is also important,” Laisaari reminds.