LUT decides not to move forward with Xamk collaboration options

LUT University's board has discussed the options for stronger higher education collaboration in Southeast Finland and South Savo that were presented in the related feasibility study. The options included deeper collaboration within the current organisational structure or LUT taking ownership of the South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences Xamk. The board has decided not to move forward with either option. Current forms of collaboration with Xamk will continue normally.

Based on an analysis of the operating environment’s future, the growth potential for new campuses in the cities that own Xamk are limited in relation to the size and risk of the investment. LUT should direct its resources to implementing its growth strategy in Lappeenranta and Lahti, where it can take full advantage of the service and profitability benefits offered by LUT and LAB's university group and shared campuses.

LUT University is a significant part of the ecosystem that promotes economic vitality in Southeast Finland and South Savo. As the LUT board sees it, the university’s greatest contribution to the regions will continue to come from high-level research, industry collaboration, and expertise. The board's decision concerns the two options presented in the related feasibility study. It does not change LUT's desire or readiness for strong research and industry collaboration with actors in Southeast Finland and South Savo.

The long-term economic vitality of the regions relies on expertise, research and development, business renewal, and investments. The cities that own Xamk have many opportunities for flexible collaboration with universities. Taking advantage of them calls for long-standing collaboration between the cities, companies, higher education institutions, and other actors.