Active lifestyle to be included in higher education legislation – OLL publishes its goals for the 2027 parliamentary elections

The parliamentary parties have committed to improving Finns’ physical functional capacity by pursuing a 15% increase by 2040. OLL joins the sports and physical activity sector in calling for a cross-administrative programme for physical functional capacity in Finland. The federation wants the programme to recognise higher education studies as part of promoting lifelong physical activity as well as study ability and work ability.

Promoting an active lifestyle requires continuity and predictability in both resourcing and decision-making. OLL therefore proposes that the task of promoting an active lifestyle be included in the Universities of Applied Sciences Act and the Universities Act and be taken into account in higher education funding.

Head of Communications Niko Peltokangas presented the election objectives today at a meeting of the University on the Move network. They link student physical activity to broader societal goals.

“Increasing physical activity and fostering a culture that supports it play an important role in strengthening both physical functional capacity and the educational attainment of young adults. Research shows that physical activity is associated with better learning outcomes and academic success, and higher education institutions provide important opportunities to develop the skills needed to maintain functional capacity throughout working life,” Peltokangas explains.

Check out OLL's election goals here!

For more information

President Martta Sopanen, martta.sopanen@oll.fi, 044 7800 211

Head of Communications Niko Peltokangas, niko.peltokangas@oll.fi, 046 9211 215