Teachers may apply for Finnish exchange scheme by September 27: Minister

Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains today exchanged a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Finnish ambassador in New Delhi to provide international-level training for government primary school teachers of the state. He was accompanied by former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

The initiative is aimed at honing the teaching and learning outcomes at the primary school level and the first batch of 72 primary school teachers would embark on a three-week international training programme at the University of Turku, Finland.

Bains said, “I am delighted to announce the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with Finland. This collaboration will enhance the primary education framework in Punjab and also foster cultural exchange between India and Finland.”

Speaking about the agreement, Bains said the state government’s primary school teachers would receive advanced training at the University of Turku in Finland. He added that while five Finnish universities had expressed interest in providing this training, the University of Turku was ultimately selected.

The Education Minister highlighted Finland's global reputation in childhood education. He praised its innovative approach that emphasises play, exploration and daily experiential learning. He said the Finnish education system prioritised early childhood education and care as the cornerstone for lifelong learning and development.

He said the teachers interested in participating in the training program may submit their applications through the designated website up until the evening of September 27.