If you need to become more familiar with Finland and its remarkable educational system, or if you need clarification on the conflicting opinions you read on social media or in the news, I recommend reading these points to understand the story clearly.
About Finland:
Finland is a country located in Northern Europe. It was once part of Sweden and became part of the Russian Empire before gaining independence in the early 20th century. After independence, Finland was one of the poorest countries in Europe, with an economy heavily reliant on agriculture, while other European countries were advancing in technology and space exploration.
Beginning of Educational Reform:
In the 1960s, Finland's political leaders agreed that improving education was the key to the country's progress. Finland sought advice from Sweden on how to develop its educational system. Finland then developed the Swedish system into what is now considered the best educational system in the world.
Results of the Finnish Experience:
According to a 2015 report from the Global Peace Index, Finland is considered the most politically, economically, and socially stable country in the world. Finnish citizens enjoy a high quality of life, and despite a population of just over 5 million, Finland's national income exceeds that of much larger countries, such as Egypt.
Features of the Finnish Educational System:
Completely Free Education: Education in Finland is entirely free. There are no school fees, school transportation is free, and school supplies are provided at no cost. Additionally, every school offers free meals to students, prepared by nutrition experts.
Focus on Mental and Physical Well-being: The primary goal of education in Finland is to provide a comfortable mental and physical environment for students. There is no punishment of any kind, and the aim is for all students to be equal in their educational opportunities.
Highly Qualified Teachers: To become a teacher in Finland, one must hold at least a master's degree. Teachers also receive ongoing training to enhance their skills.
Flexibility in Education: Teachers in Finland have the freedom to design the curriculum based on the needs of their students. The central government does not impose strict curricula but rather provides general guidelines, allowing teachers the freedom to use the tools and methods they deem appropriate.
Comprehensive Assessment: Assessment in Finland is descriptive rather than numerical. Teachers provide detailed feedback on students' performance in various areas. Additional support is provided to students who need it based on this assessment.
Secondary Education: The secondary education system in Finland is flexible, allowing students to choose the subjects they wish to study. Students undergo tests to determine their readiness for university admission.
Respect for Religions: The Finnish educational system respects all religions and offers religious education tailored to students' beliefs.
Nurseries and Childcare Centers: Since 1973, Finnish law has ensured that childcare facilities are available for children under the age of six in their residential areas. There are also care centers for children under the age of three.
Egypt and the Finnish Experience:
In 2014, Dr. Mahmoud Abul-Nasr, the Minister of Education in Prime Minister Mehleb's government, attempted to apply the Finnish model in Egypt through cooperation with the Finnish embassy. Unfortunately, the desired results were not achieved, and the attempt ended with the following ministerial change.
The UAE and the Finnish Experience:
The UAE established two schools in Abu Dhabi based on the Finnish system. Still, the experiment failed because the focus was solely on the schools without considering the strategic infrastructure of the state as a whole.
Conclusion:
The Finnish educational experience is a model to be emulated, but to apply such an experience, there must be integration among all components of the educational system. It must be implemented within a comprehensive strategy that fits the local environment and culture.