The tasks of the South Karelian Institute include:
- Activating and conducting wide-ranging and multidisciplinary scientific research in South Karelia and, subsequently, strengthening the scientific profile of the region
- Promoting scientific cooperation and networking in training and research
- Complementing the research and training opportunities offered by the Lappeenranta University of Technology
- Promoting cultural and educational activities in the region
- Supporting the region in the establishment and promotion of its identity, image, recognition, and attractiveness through research, training, and educational and cultural projects and the creation of a regional spirit
- Supporting scientific postgraduate studies and research in various fields by maintaining and developing the operations of the researcher community of the South Karelian Institute.
- Promoting active distribution of information
Basics about the South Karelian Institute:
The South Karelian Institute was founded as a separate research unit of the Lappeenranta University of Technology in the autumn of 2002. Its purpose is to promote the development of the region by conducting academic research in the fields of the humanities and social sciences on themes relevant to the region and its surrounding areas. The educational activities and publications of the institute aim to strengthen the expertise and scientific base of the region.
The South Karelian Institute introduces a social scientific and humanistic viewpoint to the research and educational opportunities offered by the Lappeenranta University of Technology. In addition, the institute provides expert services and creates new expertise through cultural and educational projects of general interest.
As a flexible unit, the institute is able to address current research projects quickly. Furthermore, the institute is able to create an efficient multidisciplinary research and researcher community in the region by recruiting researchers for projects and providing training, research facilities, and other supporting services to the local research community.