oppivelvollisuuteen

Oppivelvollisuus is a Finnish term that translates to compulsory education. It signifies the legal obligation for all children residing in Finland to receive education. This obligation typically begins at the age of seven and continues until the completion of upper secondary education, which can be either general upper secondary school or vocational education and training. The purpose of oppivelvollisuus is to ensure that every child has access to a fundamental level of education, promoting equality and providing a foundation for future learning and societal participation.

The Finnish education system, including oppivelvollisuus, is characterized by its high quality and equitable access. While the state provides free basic education, including meals, materials, and transportation for those living far from school, the overarching principle is that education is a right and a responsibility. The duration of compulsory education was extended in recent years to cover the completion of upper secondary education, aiming to equip young people with the skills and knowledge necessary for a rapidly changing world and the demands of the labor market. This extension reflects a commitment to lifelong learning and a belief in the importance of higher levels of education for individual and societal well-being.