Yliopistolaki

Yliopistolaki is a Finnish law that regulates the rights and obligations of students attending Finnish universities. The law was enacted in 1999 and has undergone several revisions since its introduction. It applies to all state-funded universities in Finland, as well as private universities that receive state funding.

According to the law, students have the right to higher education without discrimination on grounds of age, sex, language, ethnicity, living area, or social background. The law also guarantees the right to confidentiality of personal data collected by the university. In return, students have a responsibility to participate actively in their own education and to fulfill the requirements set by their course of study.

Yliopistolaki also regulates the relationship between students and teachers, requiring universities to maintain a personal registration system for all students and teachers. This system provides a means for communication and helps in planning and implementing the education process. The law further emphasizes the importance of feedback between students and teachers, aimed at promoting the learning process and student development.

In addition, the law provides rules for student elections, student unions, and student fees. It requires universities to ensure equal access to education for students with disabilities and to accommodate the needs of these students. The law also establishes the rights of students to distance education, taking into account the development of technology.

Yliopistolaki has undergone several revisions since its enactment, aimed at ensuring that the law remains effective and responsive to the changing needs of higher education in Finland.