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Nordic learnings for educational providers and authorities

“It is crucial to provide educational opportunities in smaller communities and towns to help retain the local workforce. This approach strengthens the region... If we educate teachers locally, then we have teachers for our local schools.”

(Holbæk, municipality, Denmark)

This policy brief highlights the vital role for PHEIs in local and regional development, highlighting their influence as shapers of places and culture. PHEIs complement major university towns and capital regions by enabling rural youth to access education close to home or with minimal travel, ensuring they are not left behind in accessing quality education and opportunities. The findings of this policy brief emphasize that strategic planning for PHEIs must account for the distinct demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the Nordic regions where they operate. Based on a literature review, survey results, and findings from a focus group discussion, some parameters for the success of PHEIs have been identified:

Tailor educational offers to align with the needs and preferences of the local youth. Students at PHEIs are often described as ’non-traditional’, characterised by their older age, diverse backgrounds, and likelihood of having children. These factors significantly influence their educational priorities. Survey results show that these students prioritize proximity to home and, to a lesser extent, the specific academic offerings. Other significant factors include closeness to friends and social networks, access to vibrant student life, and affordable housing options. It is therefore crucial for PHEIs to tailor their educational programs and student services to meet these diverse needs and preferences.

Attract local students. Focusing on enrolling students from local areas or regions, including potential returnees, can strengthen local economies and enhance the accessibility of education. This approach engages individuals who might not otherwise consider higher education or who might find it challenging to relocate. Additionally, it contributes to the retention of talent within the region, further bolstering economic and social development. To attract students from larger cities, PHEIs need to offer unique, high-quality programs that are unavailable in other parts of the country.

Align with local labour market needs. By tailoring educational programs to local labour market demands and collaborating with local employers, PHEIs ensure that their offerings meet local needs and prepare students for the local job markets. This alignment makes programs more attractive to students, who often seek education that mirrors regional employment opportunities. It also increases the likelihood that graduates will stay in the region if they find relevant jobs.

Bring about innovative and dynamic education. Rapid societal changes, such as green re-industrialization and evolving views on competencies and lifelong learning, pose both challenges and opportunities. PHEIs, with their close labour market ties, small size, and flexibility, are well-positioned to meet these dynamic needs. However, adaptation has been slow. Granting PHEIs more autonomy to develop programs in collaboration with municipalities and labour market actors, along with leveraging innovative, digital, and flexible educational methods, is crucial to accelerating progress. During this transition, it is essential to preserve the campus as a meeting place, even though its role and function may evolve.