Network event in Vaasa brings university sports service providers and service users together

The Finnish Student Sports Federation (OLL) took another step forward in implementing its new strategy when the sports service networking meeting and Universities on the Move event merged to form a new event for sports service providers and sports representatives. The participants heard from student mental health organisation Nyyti’s project manager Annina Lindberg, who talked about the organisation’s work to combat loneliness in higher education institutions. The participants also discussed practical ways of promoting student wellbeing through sports.

“The new event concept turned out to be an excellent way to provide different actors in the field of university sports with an interactive space for discussion. Thanks to the wide range of participants, the lectures and workshops were very productive,” says university sport specialist Anni Liina Ikonen of the Finnish Student Sports Federation.

The two-day event also covered many other subjects in addition to the theme of loneliness experienced by students. Janette Savumaa presented her thesis on the sports consultation service chain. The participants also discussed principles for a safer space and participated in a workshop on advocacy in the context of the upcoming municipal and regional elections. In addition to facilitating dialogue around exercise, OLL’s events also include physical activities. This time, on the first day the participants chose between canoeing, obstacle course racing, wall climbing and acroyoga. On the second day, the participants joined a relaxed guided pilates session that offered a break from the day’s discussions.

“The event was a great experience. It was particularly interesting to hear the views of other sports representatives on the topics we covered. These network events are really important, providing a platform for developing new ideas for our work. Personally, I always look forward to them with great enthusiasm”, says sports services planner Jari Virtanen from Häme University of Applied Sciences.

Were you unable to make it this time? Not to worry – similar events will be organised in the autumn! Check out our supply of events here.

All materials shared in the network event will be sent to the participants by email and added to the data bank.