Program

The first part of the program includes brief presentations, panel presentations, and small group discussions. Besides Finland, the U.S., Austria, Georgia, Germany, France, Hong Kong, Lithuania and UK, lecturers include faculty members and practitioners from the other countries represented in the program. Typically, the presentations address a range of topics related to the program theme of social work from a global perspective.  

Students also share information about their home countries; for example, their work experiences or social issues, in student panels. Participants engage in small group discussions (group dialogues) on topics related to global social work such as ethics or immigration. 

A social-cultural program during the first week includes a welcoming reception, an international evening combined and a pot luck dinner (see Social Program for more information on these events). 

Time and duration: Monday - Sunday 19.5-25.5.2025
Place: University of Lapland

Summer School Program_2025.pdf

Mon. 19 May

Welcoming remarks

Participant Introductions

Lectures

Rovaniemi City Walk and Welcoming Event

Tues. 20 May

Lectures, Student Panels and Group Dialogues

Wed. 21 May

Lectures, Student Panels and Group Dialogues

International Evening

Thurs. 22 May

Lectures and Student Panels 

Fri. 23 May

Lectures and Student Panels

Closing ceremonies

Pot Luck dinner 

Part One - Excursion to Inari 

Monday-Wednesday 26.5-28.5.2025

This excursion takes us to Inari and Utsjoki, Finland’s northernmost municipality, located 367 km north of the Arctic Circle. We travel by bus through southern Lapland’s woods towards the fell area of Lapland and the Finnish Sámi district. We stay two nights in the Kevo research station.

The trip introduces us to Sámi Culture and social services to Lapland’s indigenous Sámi population.

International Evening 

Wednesday 21.5.2025 at the University.

During the international evening each country represented in the summer school has an opportunity to share something about their culture. Presentations may include history, arts, geography, language, dress, customs, or anything that participants would like others to know or experience. In past years, for example, participants have shared food and music, worn traditional clothing, displayed photographs, and taught dances, games and folk tales.

Potluck Dinner

Friday 23.5.2025 at the University

Participants of the summer school also share traditional food and/or beverages from their home countries. The atmosphere is informal and fun.

Optional visits to Rovaniemi Museums 

Saturday 24.5.2025 

Science Center Pilke: The opportunity to explore the forest with all your senses and from many different angles

Korundi: House of Culture and Rovaniemi Art Museum 

Arktikum: Arctic science centre and Museum

An optional hiking trip to Ounasvaara.

Sunday 26.5.2025