Ethical principles

The university’s ethical principles form the basis of our culture and communicate our way of doing things. Our goal is to make everyone feel welcome and at ease when studying and working at the University of Oulu. Our principles and values are realised through the actions of our staff, decision-makers, students, and all those who participate in our activities. Every member of the university community has a personal responsibility to comply with our principles.

In order to create something new – in research, innovation or study activities – we must challenge ourselves. This requires courage and an open mind. An open mind helps people investigate new ideas without preconceptions, understand different perspectives, and discover new ways of seeing things. Our University needs a bold and experimental atmosphere that encourages people to learn, develop, and grow, so that they can create new things and achieve their goals. ​

To meet the changes in our society and environment, we must constantly seek research-based knowledge and learning, visionary ideas, and effective responses. Continuous learning and the ability to adapt to new operating methods are vital for our renewal and ability to anticipate any emerging needs. Learning and renewal are also the cornerstones of improving well-being at work. Keeping current and competitive in our education, research, and societal impact depends on our capacity for renewal.​

We promote the open use of information, both in scientific research and elsewhere in society. The University of Oulu is committed to open science in all disciplines and scientific practices. The principles of responsible research help to ensure the reliability, honesty, and integrity of our research. ​

The University’s decision-making and development work in its different bodies and working groups is open and inclusive, and each decisions is explained and justified. We ensure that our decisions support the University’s mission. We promote open interaction among the members of the University community and with our partners and stakeholders. The assignments we give to our students and employees clearly specify our expectations and criteria for success. Our students are entitled to efficient and attentive services from our student administration. ​

Without exception, we always comply with the guidelines and regulations that guarantee the University’s integrity and responsibility. We use our resources efficiently and sustainably for the benefit of our entire community. We regularly monitor for any conflicts of interest, to prevent abuse and maintain everyone’s trust in the University’s operations and management, including its recruitment practices.​

As members of the University community, we are responsible for our own choices and their consequences for sustainable development. We strive to promote sustainable development in all our activities while also emphasising the perspectives of ecological, social, economic, and cultural sustainability. Sustainability in everyday life refers to daily choices and behaviours that increase environmental friendliness, economic sustainability, and social responsibility for both the individual and their community. Our University’s sustainable development efforts make extensive use of international, sector-specific frameworks.​

Our collective spirit is created by each and every member of our community. Good manners – greeting people, saying thank you, and, when necessary, apologising – make it easier for everyone to work together and create a positive atmosphere. The aim of constructive and respectful interaction is to encourage, motivate, commend, support and delight one’s fellow students or colleagues. We respect everyone’s work and time by participating actively, following instructions, and giving constructive feedback. During lectures and working hours, we allow others to concentrate on their work.​

Work community skills apply to the entire academic community, and they are part of a person's professional competence and study abilities. Mutual respect and proper conduct help our community members reduce conflict, understand different points of view, and resolve disagreements in a constructive manner. We understand our responsibility for engaging with factual information and avoid spreading rumours or gossip.​

Our aim is to make everyone feel welcome and appreciated in our community. We promote diversity and equality, because we believe that an inclusive environment is best for new discoveries, learning, and healthy discussion. People with different backgrounds, skills, and experiences enrichen our community. To highlight everyone’s abilities, we must be able to interact and work in an equal and non-discriminatory manner. Together, we are smarter, stronger, and better. Positive experiences foster caring, commitment, and the willingness to participate in developing our community.​

The University of Oulu is committed to promoting diversity and equality at all levels of its organisation, including its different decision-making, development, and evaluation processes. Our University community does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or inappropriate treatment, and we have created a common operating model for preventing and solving any problematic situations.​

The successes and achievements of individuals form the foundation for study and work-related well-being. The development of well-being is a collective effort, and it is especially reliant on those who work in roles of responsibility, for example as teachers, supervisors, project managers, line managers, and leaders. Joint achievements can create long-term positive impacts on interpersonal relationships and everyone’s sense of belonging, which then helps promote the holistic well-being of individuals. We are building a better future for our community and ourselves.​

At the University of Oulu, we want to foster a culture that balances our productivity and quality-related goals for our work with everyone’s general well-being. Whether you are a student or an employee, life is more than just work. A balanced life includes social interaction, rest, exercise, and other activities. Self-management skills are essential for securing one’s general well-being. The University of Oulu promotes and supports the well-being and everyday life of its students and staff through various services and by emphasising a family-friendly culture.​