International cooperation and student mobility are important elements in strengthening the attractiveness and relevance of vocational education and training (VET). The VET2Sustain project highlights how international experiences can support the development of transversal skills such as collaboration, intercultural competence and adaptability.
At the same time, the project emphasizes sustainability as a key theme in future vocational learning. The visit of Italian students to Omnia provided a practical example of how mobility can combine vocational learning, sustainable development and cultural exchange in an international context.
On February 26th, a group of Italian students arrived in Finland, ready to begin an unforgettable learning journey at Omnia. Their visit was part of Omnia’s international mobility program, which welcomes students from across Europe to experience Finnish education, culture, and working life. Known for its strong focus on vocational excellence, sustainability, and innovation, Omnia offers students more than classroom learning — it provides real-life experiences that prepare them for a rapidly changing world.
A Gentle Introduction to Finnish Wellness
The first full day started with a short but inspiring presentation by Omnia tourism students Maisa and Francesca. Their theme was wellness — a concept deeply rooted in Finnish culture. hey explained how well-being in Finland is built on balance: time in nature, moments of silence, healthy routines, and meaningful social connections and how this approach reflects a sustainable lifestyle where both people and the environment are valued.
To continue the experience beyond theory, the group traveled to Green Window near Nuuksio National Park. Surrounded by snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, the students were introduced to the calmness that Finns draw from nature.
They were welcomed into a warm, traditional Finnish holiday home with hot glögi and gingerbread biscuits. The crackling fireplace and cozy wooden interior created an immediate sense of comfort and hospitality. It was a soft landing into Nordic winter life.
Maisa and Francesca then guided the group through short breathing exercises outdoors in the snow. The students were encouraged to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly observe their surroundings. The silence of the forest was powerful — no traffic, no city noise, only the sound of snow beneath their boots. A peaceful walk through the winter landscape followed, reinforcing the importance of mindfulness and presence.
Sauna, Ice Swimming, and Finnish Sisu
The highlight of the day was the traditional wood-burning sauna. Sauna culture is an essential part of Finnish identity, and for many of the Italian students, this was their first authentic experience. After warming up in the soft heat, the bravest participants took a dip in the frozen lake.
This moment introduced them to the Finnish concept of sisu — resilience, courage, and inner strength. The experience was both physically intense and deeply rewarding, leaving students feeling energized and proud. It also offered a meaningful insight into Finnish cultural identity.
The day concluded with a traditional Finnish food experience. The use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients also highlighted how Finnish food culture supports sustainability through responsible consumption and respect for nature.
Discovering Helsinki’s Creative Spirit
The following day, the group explored Helsinki. One of the highlights was visiting Oodi, Helsinki’s central library. The students admired how Oodi is far more than a reading space. It is a creative hub offering studios, gaming rooms, 3D printing facilities, meeting spaces, and open areas for citizens of all ages. The visit sparked conversations about how public spaces can empower youth and support creativity.
They also visited Senate Square, the historic Old Market Hall, and the interactive Paradox Museum Helsinki, where illusion-based exhibits brought laughter and amazement. The mix of history, design, and playful innovation showcased the dynamic character of the Finnish capital.
International Collaboration and Sustainable Futures
On Monday, the experience became even more international as a group of German students joined. Together, they visited Omnia’s Lakelantu Campus, where the focus was on Sustainable Future studies. Students learned how sustainability is integrated into vocational education and working life in Finland. Through group work and discussions, they explored the green innovation together.
The next day, the group gathered at Kirkonkatu campus, where Sirje Hassinen gave an insightful presentation on the Finnish education system and Omnia’s role within it. She emphasized the importance of vocational education and training (VET) as a strong pathway to employment. In Finland, vocational schools are highly respected because companies value versatile, skilled professionals who can adapt to evolving industries.
Students discussed how the Finnish system feels more flexible and relaxed compared to German and Italian schools. Personalized learning paths and competence-based assessment help students build practical expertise while supporting their individual strengths. The session also introduced broader aspects of Finnish culture and society, offering context to everything they had experienced so far. The day ended with a visit to the ethnographic museum in Espoo Centre, deepening their understanding of local history and traditions.
Finnish Hospitality and Cultural Inspiration
The following morning, the students enjoyed a Finnish breakfast at Hotel Kalastajatorppa, experiencing Nordic hospitality at its finest. A guided tour of the hotel and IGLUX spaces introduced them to Finnish design thinking and service concepts. Later, they visited the renowned museum Ateneum, where they explored Finland’s national art heritage.
Innovation at Aalto Makerspace
On their final day, the students were introduced to the Makerspace collaboration between Omnia and Aalto University. The Makerspace is an open, collaborative environment where digital design meets hands-on prototyping. Here, students learned about experimentation, innovation culture, and work-based learning opportunities for vocational students.
At its core, the Makerspace encourages creativity, problem-solving, and multidisciplinary collaboration — skills essential for future careers. The visit demonstrated how Finnish education bridges theory and practice, empowering students to transform ideas into tangible products.
