In defense of free education

Free education is the foundation of Finnish society, but it is not something we can take for granted, and that is precisely why it needs defending. So today, on October 16th, the Day of Free Education, is a good moment to reflect on why free education is worth defending and to recognize the threats it faces. 

The possibility of tuition fees are occasionally floated in political discussions. During last spring’s government budget framework negotiations, the proposal to grant degree-awarding rights to open university studies would have created a paid pathway alongside the free one in our education system. In the worst case, such a reform would lead to a situation where degree students receive lower-quality teaching and education, as universities would face increasing pressure to focus on the paid open university route. 

The quality of education is also central to this discussion. It is not enough for education to be free. It must also be of good quality. Universities must have the necessary resources to provide top-level teaching and guidance, so that our level of competence does not collapse. 

But what are the real costs of studying for a student? In recent years, as prices have risen, the response to students’ financial struggles has been to freeze the indexation of student grants and now to transfer students from general housing allowance to the student housing supplement. In other words, as living costs rise, student support has been weakened. Taking student loans isn’t mandatory of course and many students manage through work, family support, or savings but for many, this is not an option.  

If the only way to finance full-time studies is by taking on tens of thousands of euros in debt, can we really speak of truly free education? What is the societal cost when the price of a degree is severe debt, burn-out, and the loss of free time? 

Free education is a national investment in the future. It offers equal opportunities for all, reduces social and economic inequality, and lays the foundation for the sustainable success of our society. Social mobility is not just for individuals benefit. It is our collective responsibility to build a fair and equal Finland. The goal of free education is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to study and that is a value worth fighting for.