Perusosaaja

Perusosaaja is a Finnish term formed from the basic- prefix perus- and the noun osaaja, meaning a person who possesses skills or competence. It refers to someone who has basic, foundational competence in a given area. It is not a formal professional title; its meaning and scope depend on the context in which it is used.

In education and training, perusosaaja often designates a learner who has achieved essential skills rather than advanced mastery. In employment and public services, the term can describe a job seeker or participant who demonstrates the minimum level of competence required to perform entry-level tasks. In digital literacy or language-learning programs, it can denote basic functional abilities.

Examples of basic competences might include basic numeracy, reading and writing at a functional level, or the ability to use common software tools and devices. The exact skills considered "perusosaaja" are defined locally in curricula, assessments, or program guidelines.

Because perusosaaja is not a fixed, standardized designation, its precise meaning varies across sectors and regions. It is commonly used in discussions about skill development, vocational education, and social services to describe a starting point for further learning or qualification.