# Student project work: a partnership between businesses and educational institutions fosters economic growth in Eastern Finland

> Here’s a good example of how companies can work with Savonias international students.

## Collaboration for Innovation and Growth
In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, collaboration between industries and educational institutions is paramount for driving innovation and attracting talent. Embracing economic growth and talent development is crucial for the whole region of Eastern Finland. A fruitful approach to cooperation involves inviting students to engage in project work within companies.

## Partner Companies
*   **Andritz:** A globally leading supplier of plants, equipment, automation solutions and services for hydropower stations, the pulp and paper industry, the metalworking and steel industries, as well as environmental and green energy-focused sectors.
*   **POK Group Oy:** A successful family-owned supplier of electricity distribution systems. They offer centralised comprehensive product solutions for demanding needs in different fields: construction, energy, and industry – on land and at sea.

## Student Projects at Andritz
Students completing their degree in the international Mechanical Engineering programme (focusing on industrial management) carried out projects in groups of three. Engineering student **Blaise Mugabo** and his team studied and analysed the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and its impact on Andritz’s procurement processes.

Sourcing Manager **Timo Rastas** praised the collaboration: “Blaise’s ability to quickly grasp the core objectives of the task and understand its strategic and business implications was outstanding. His high-level communication and presentation skills further enhanced the collaboration, making the project extremely beneficial for Andritz.”

For Andritz, the research is instrumental in meeting mid-term targets related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. For Blaise, the experience provided a deeper understanding of the interplay between legal frameworks and business strategies.

## Student Projects at POK Group
Engineering students **Elena Kosheleva** and **Daniial Nigmatullin** performed project work for POK. Elena analysed the work process of assembling a concrete secondary substation, while Daniial conducted an offer and effectiveness analysis to assess product profitability.

HR Community & People Manager **Karita Lehikoinen** noted that the collaboration exceeded expectations, particularly regarding the integration of international students. “Our employees embraced international students and bravely used English, even if they don’t use it in their everyday work,” she explained.

Daniial found the project educational, noting: “Thanks to my instructor at the workplace, I now have a good perception of the work stages of the assembly process and components used – from construction to sending.”

## Future Outlook and Talent Development
Both companies view these projects as vital for nurturing future talent and as potential recruitment channels. 

*   **Timo Rastas (Andritz):** Emphasizes that personality and attitude are the most important factors when hiring.
*   **Karita Lehikoinen (POK):** Highlights the need for students to understand Finnish working life, occupational safety legislation, and managerial skills.
*   **Elena Kosheleva (Student):** Notes the importance of paid internships and support in learning the Finnish language.

## Talent Hub Eastern Finland
The Talent Hub Eastern Finland project aims to bridge the gap between employers and students through:
*   **Mentoring Programme:** Helps international students build networks and understand Finnish working life.
*   **Student Team Model:** Increases cooperation with companies to find internships, project work, and part-time jobs.
*   **Bilingual Online Course:** A new course launching next semester to help international students understand Finnish work culture and strengthen their competencies.

*Talent Hub Eastern Finland is a project co-funded by the European Union.*