Finnish welfare sector stakeholders call for new continuous learning model

Labor market stakeholders in the Finnish municipal and welfare sectors are calling on decision-makers to establish a new model for continuous learning. The group, which includes employers (KT) and major unions (JAU, JUKO, and Sote ry), emphasizes that a replacement for the discontinued adult education support is urgently needed to ensure service functionality.

The stakeholders warn that without sufficient opportunities for skill development, municipalities and welfare areas will struggle to meet rising service demands, technological shifts, and productivity pressures. They highlight that the rapid evolution of work and technology requires placing personnel expertise at the center of strategic planning.

Proposed measures include long-term support for workplace development, such as systematic training for the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence. Additionally, the parties advocate for the implementation of the Work Life Development Strategy 2035, which aims to increase both productivity and employee well-being.