MUMBAI, August 17, 2023 – Somaiya Vidyavihar University proudly welcomed Erik af Hällström, the Consul General of Finland, to its Mumbai campus on August 14th, 2023. This esteemed visit aimed to foster stronger ties between Finland and India in the areas of education, innovation, and industry collaboration.
Hällström met with Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University; V. N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice Chancellor; and the Heads of constituent colleges. They engaged in constructive dialogue, focusing on three key agendas:
The parties discussed potential collaboration and exchange programs with top universities in Finland, opening up new avenues for educational advancement and cultural exchange.
The conversation further extended to exploring and adopting Finnish best practices in quality education and innovation. Finland, being renowned for its world-class education system, offers a plethora of learning opportunities.
Understanding the growing business relations between India and Finland, the meeting also emphasized exploring partnerships and internship opportunities for students with Finnish companies operating in India.
Consul General mentioned that there are about 120 Finnish companies operating business in India and there are good opportunities for Indians to study and work in Finland, a country ranked the happiest country for the past 6 years. India is an important strategic partner therefore opened new consulate in Mumbai in January 2023.
The Consul General’s visit also included an inspiring talk at the K J Somaiya Institute of Management Studies. Addressing the students, Hällström elaborated on the foreign policy priorities of Finland’s new government, providing invaluable insights into international diplomacy, the scope of new avenues for business development and the strategic goals of Finland.
Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, expressed gratitude and optimism for the fruitful outcomes of the meeting, stating, “This collaboration symbolizes a step towards global learning. We are eager to see the new horizons that this partnership will unveil for both Somaiya Vidyavihar University and Finland’s educational institutions.”
Consul General had a tour of Somaiya Campus and praised the green environment, quality of education and appreciated the questions asked by the students.
The visit marks a significant step towards creating a global educational platform where knowledge, innovation, and industry alignment are at the forefront. Somaiya Vidyavihar University continues to pursue excellence, collaboration, and global outreach, embodying its commitment to building a brighter future for all its students.