Xamk and LUT University explore higher education merger

The owner cities of Xamk—Mikkeli, Kotka, Kouvola, and Savonlinna—and LUT University have released a preliminary study regarding a potential merger of higher education institutions in Southeast Finland. The proposal suggests integrating Xamk into the LUT group to enhance the competitiveness of educational offerings and ensure the future of higher education in the region amidst negative population trends.

Under the proposed vision, different campuses would specialize in specific fields: Kouvola in innovation and sustainable processes, Mikkeli in total security and water systems, Kotka in energy storage, and Savonlinna in growth entrepreneurship and welfare technology. Economically, the merger could provide Xamk with annual benefits exceeding nine million euros through service efficiencies and increased revenue from educational exports.

However, the merger may lead to the consolidation and relocation of degree programs. For LAB University of Applied Sciences, which operates in Lahti and Lappeenranta, this could result in the removal of certain overlapping programs to ensure campus specialization. LUT University Board Chair Teresa Kemppi-Vasama noted that the feasibility of the merger must be weighed against the university's growth and business opportunities, particularly as public funding cuts increase reliance on private sector cooperation.