Perussanahakusana

Perussanahakusana, also known as the Finnish Basic Education Act (*Perusopetuslaki*), is a foundational piece of legislation in Finland that governs the country’s comprehensive school system. Enacted in 1977 and revised multiple times since, it establishes the right to free, compulsory, and equal basic education for all children aged 7 to 16. The act is a cornerstone of Finland’s education policy, reflecting the country’s commitment to equitable access and high-quality schooling.

Under the Perussanahakusana, basic education is divided into two phases: primary school (*peruskoulu*), covering grades 1–6, and lower secondary school (*yläaste*), covering grades 7–9. The curriculum is standardized nationwide but allows local flexibility in implementation, ensuring relevance to regional needs. Key principles include a student-centered approach, emphasis on critical thinking, and integration of digital literacy. Subjects such as Finnish, mathematics, sciences, and physical education are mandatory, while students also engage in arts, social studies, and vocational guidance.

The act mandates that schools operate on a democratic model, with student councils and parent-teacher associations actively involved in decision-making. Teacher autonomy is prioritized, with educators having significant influence over instructional methods and assessment. Additionally, the Perussanahakusana ensures that schools provide free meals, transportation, and learning materials, reducing financial barriers for families.

Finland’s education system, shaped by this legislation, consistently ranks among the top globally in international assessments like PISA. The Perussanahakusana continues to evolve, with recent reforms focusing on digitalization, special education support, and addressing societal challenges such as climate change and multiculturalism. Its principles remain a model for other countries seeking to build inclusive and high-performing education systems.