SFU and LAB, Finland sign MOU on academic collaboration and business education

Saint Francis University strengthens global connection by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with LAB University of Applied Sciences in Finland – an established higher-education institution of innovation, business, and industry, thereby driving academic collaboration and exchanges in sustainable business as well as setting up an extensive network of universities for applied sciences.

Recent years have seen a growing demand for vocational education and professional training in the city, as the government affirmed its commitment to facilitate the establishment of universities for applied sciences. These institutions differ from traditional universities in their approach to teaching by integrating work-based learning and practical applications in the industry. It therefore paves the way for students aspiring to go into technical professions, namely business, hospitality, and healthcare, to acquire qualifications at the university degree level.

Saint Francis University (SFU) has recently received approval from the Education Bureau to become the city’s second university of applied sciences. To fast-track academic partnerships in applied degree education and promote collaboration among faculties and students, SFU and the LAB University of Applied Sciences in Finland (LUAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on November 6. The MOU was signed by Professor Lo-Tit Wing, acting president of SFU, and Dr. Turo Kilpeläinen, CEO of LUAS.

During the signing ceremony, Lo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to forge a long-term partnership with LUAS. “We are deeply grateful for the chance to collaborate with LUAS and explore exciting opportunities, particularly in teaching and research,” Lo says. “Becoming a university of applied sciences marks a new beginning for us. The Finnish education model, with its highly qualified educators, emphasis on equity and collaboration, and top-tier learning environment, offers tremendous value in enhancing our programs and promoting cultural exchange.”

With its approval to become a university of applied sciences, Saint Francis University is set to launch several pioneering applied degree programs. These include the Bachelor of Nursing (Honors) (Applied Degree), developed as part of the Education Bureau’s 2020 first-round Applied Degree Programme Pilot Scheme, and the Bachelor of Business Administration (Honors) in Hotel and Tourism Management (Applied Degree), introduced in the second round of the pilot scheme.

Furthermore, the significance of establishing a network of universities of applied science cannot be overstated. “Our institutions share numerous similarities, especially in terms of the demand for talent and connections to companies operating in both European and Asian regions,” explains Kilpeläinen. “In Finland, you’ll notice that there are more openings at universities of applied sciences compared to traditional universities, reflecting companies’ preference for hiring graduates with practical experience. This partnership with SFU would allow our students to explore a unique culture and access economic opportunities across the globe.”

 The partnership also sets the stage for SFU to reach other universities of applied sciences worldwide. “Europe has an excellent model of professionally-oriented higher education, from Finland to Germany to the Netherlands. By taking the first step to connect with LUAS, we hope to enter the European community of universities of applied sciences and collaborate with them,” says Lo. “Leveraging our experiences outside of Hong Kong, we are dedicated to elevating the quality of our teaching and research while showcasing Hong Kong’s strengths and educational aspirations.”

A range of initiatives is being developed to foster effective academic collaboration between the two institutions, with the most notable one being a study tour in LUAS organized by SFU for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Administration in Hotel and Tourism Management (SBHM) program. Scheduled in the next academic year, the tour aims to immerse students in Finnish culture, introduce them to the LUAS campus, and engage them with its diverse international student community.
The academic exchange extends beyond students, as the staff of SFU’s Rita Tong Liu School of Business and Hospitality Management will have the opportunity to observe the teaching practices in applied sciences on the LUAS campus or through online platforms. What’s more, faculty members of both institutions will be able to share their professional experience and gain insights from one another in the forthcoming SBHM’s Research Symposium in March or April 2025, where SFU will invite academic staff of LUAS to present.

Specializing in commercialization and sustainable business practices, LUAS offers SFU crucial insights on engaging with foreign and local enterprises. “We are actively seeking ways to support and collaborate with one another. The more we integrate with the business community, the easier it becomes to assist each other. By collaborating with companies in Finland and Europe, we can leverage our connections to the Finnish companies present in Hong Kong. If these companies approach us with specific challenges that our students can help solve, it will enhance our ability to serve them effectively,” remarks Kilpeläinen.

The Finnish institution has prior experience in partnering with businesses and other universities. Citing their successful collaboration with Wood Technology, Kilpeläinen says, “Ultimately, what we envision for the future is not just a collaboration between two universities. We aim to involve these companies as well, so that our students can gain hands-on experience and establish their footing in the industry.” LUAS has also established a joint program with four European universities, leading to more research projects across disciplines, internship opportunities, and job placements in the companies the school collaborates with.

Lo points to the long-term benefits students can reap from entering the industry during their studies. “Startups, particularly in the technology and gaming sectors, are global from the outset. By providing a network that connects students and alumni across different cultures and countries, we can rapidly open up opportunities.” He continued: “While the success rate of startups is not high, the learning experiences are invaluable. What we want to do is foster collaboration among students from different disciplines and encourage them to embark on a business venture together. Even if they fail, the skills and knowledge they acquire in the process can benefit them in future employment.”

Looking forward, Lo and Kilpeläinen express hope to extend the collaboration to other academic disciplines and establish joint degree programs in the two regions. “Public support from policy makers, companies, and the community is paramount to helping our students fulfill their potential and succeed,” concludes Lo.