The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has joined the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) initiative. UNAI engages institutions of higher education with the United Nations in supporting and contributing to addressing poverty through education, capacity building, Education for All, global citizenship, access to higher education. Other important themes include the promotion and protection of human rights, intercultural dialogue, advancing peace and conflict resolution through education, promoting sustainability through education, and a commitment to the principles inherent in the United Nations Charter.
“UNAI brings us into a wider global network to promote the impact of our research and education,” says Director of Impact Minna Hendolin.
UNAI was established in 2010and it brings together a vibrant and diverse network of students, academics, scientists, researchers, think tanks, institutions of higher education, continuing education and educational associations. UEF is the first Finnish higher education institution to join UNAI, whose reach extends to over 1,600 member institutions in over 150 countries, and to over 25 million persons in education and research.
“We are excited to join this international community with whom we can work together to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, an inherent part of our global responsibility actions,” says Rector Jukka Mönkkönen.
UEF aims to advance and support engagement and internationalisation with partners in the Global South, especially in co-designing research and co-developing skills to tackle global challenges. Global responsibility and sustainable development are at the core of the activities.
“Joining UNAI gives us a platform through which we can connect and share ideas, research and resources with other stakeholders, which is part of the actions we prioritise in our Global Development Policy,”’ emphasises Roseanna Avento, Global Development Manager.
