The University of Oulu is developing a safe working environment: "Recognising situations in everyday life is crucial"
The University of Oulu takes this situation seriously.
"The news is unfortunate; this should not happen. Everyone deserves a good and safe working environment. At the University of Oulu, we have been working to find solutions to these challenges and will continue to do so," says Jarmo Okkonen, HR Director.
In May, the University of Oulu introduced updated ethical principles to support work communities, and efforts are underway to enhance supervisors' ability to recognise inappropriate situations.
"Guidelines have been developed to identify inappropriate behaviour and harassment. Training sessions are also being planned," Okkonen says.
"Through the creation of ethical principles and the development of processes for handling harassment and bullying, the University of Oulu has already focused on addressing inappropriate behaviour and developing tools. This work is ongoing, and the Student Union is committed to improving practices together with the University and other stakeholders. Inappropriate behaviour must always be addressed," says Kauko Keskisärkkä, Secretary General of the Student Union of the University of Oulu (OYY).
Library's principles of a safer space
The university has already implemented successful practices. For example, the University of Oulu Library's working group has been recognised for defining principles of a safer space. The working group has also created guidelines for day-to-day operations. The University is also accelerating the definition of safe space principles more broadly.
According to Okkonen, reports of harassment are received through various channels and are addressed according to the process.
"Reports are addressed, and the numbers are reviewed, for example, in the occupational safety committee. The key is to be aware of the issue at the everyday level, in different working groups and situations."
Rector Jouko Niinimäki has also commented on the issue, for example, in an interview with Yle during the summer.
"The most important thing is that there should be no bullying or harassment at the University, and if such experiences occur, help should be provided, and the situations resolved quickly and as close to everyday operations as possible. The worst-case scenario would be if someone in such a situation were left alone. We have a system for reporting incidents and a process for investigating cases. The process is being improved based on accumulated experience."
The University of Oulu also uses well-being surveys, through which the evaluation of results and targeted development actions allow staff and supervisors to improve workplace practices and culture throughout the organisation.
Based on the results of the employee satisfaction survey, workplace well-being at the University of Oulu has been improving. The 2023 survey results were, in some areas, above the university sector average.
Read more:
Diversity, equity and inclusion at the University of Oulu
Ethical principles of the University of Oulu
If you face inappropriate behaviour, please read the University’s guidelines on inappropriate behaviour