University of Oulu condemns acts of violence - everyone's dignity must be respected
The university, the management of the City of Oulu and the authorities emphasise that these are exceptional acts in Oulu.
"Oulu is still safe and you can move around freely. Surveillance and police presence have also been increased," Mayor of Oulu Ari Alatossava reminded at a press conference on 19 June.
Teemu Vauhkonen, Senior Researcher at the National Institute for Health and Welfare, and Pia Puolakka, a forensic psychologist, mention in Yle's news (article in Finnish) that there is no reason to be afraid. Acts such as the stabbings in Oulu are rare.
Discussion events coming up
The University of Oulu is organizing a support event for the university community in Linnanmaa Tellus Stage on Wednesday 26 June starting at 12 noon. Advance registration is required for the event.
The City of Oulu has also announced that events will be organised for foreign-language speakers and representatives of different religions in Oulu, where topical security issues and community concerns can be discussed and the voices of immigrants can also be heard. Wednesday June 26 at 15–17 the city will organize a discussion for Oulu’s foreign-language speaking citizens about current safety issues. To get more information about other possible events, follow the website of the City of Oulu.
Help available
If needed, you can also turn to the Finnish Student Health Foundation FSHS. The social and health services of the North Ostrobothnia wellbeing services county, Pohde are also at your disposal.
Students and staff have access to several different services that support well-being:
FSHS (students) +358 46 710 1073
Oulu Evangelical Lutheran Parish Union offer counseling services
Oulu Crisis Centre +358 44 3690 500
Mieli ry's crisis helpline +358 9 2525 011
Public health care social and crisis emergency services in the Oulu region, +358 44 703 6235.
The staff also has access to Mehiläinen's occupational health services and Auntie mental well-being service. More information can be found on the staff intranet Patio. For more information about university events, please contact Taina Cooke: taina.cooke@oulu.fi