In late 2025, as a pivotal milestone of the “fit4future” project, the Zemgale Planning Region together with partners from Bauska, Pakruojis, and Biržai municipalities visited Turku, Finland. The study visit provided a comprehensive insight into a unified STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) ecosystem, aligning with the project’s goal to enhance the capacity of educational specialists in the cross-border region.
The visit focused on Finland’s holistic approach to education – ranging from municipal support mechanisms to field-tested pedagogical solutions. Meetings with representatives from the City of Turku Education Division and Innovation Department demonstrated a deliberate structure where STEAM development is a continuous process implemented across all educational stages – from preschool to higher education.
The Strategic Shift: From STEM to STEAM A key observation for the delegation was the strategic transition from STEM to STEAM by deliberately integrating the Arts. Referencing OECD PISA 2022 data, Finnish experts emphasized that social-emotional skills fostered by the arts – such as curiosity and perseverance – significantly improve performance in exact sciences.
Observations by Educational Levels:
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Preschool: The delegation observed how STEAM is organically integrated into daily activities. It serves as a practical tool for overcoming language barriers in diverse groups. Educators often use simple, low-cost visual aids, proving that effective results rely more on methodology than expensive technology.
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Basic Education: At Puolala School, the focus shifts to self-directed learning. Students showcased the interdisciplinary “Science Amusement Park” project, combining technical skills (Micro:bit coding) with creative environment design. The use of e-portfolios allows students to record goals and reflections, effectively “making thinking visible.”
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Upper Secondary: TSYK Upper Secondary School demonstrated specialized study tracks, such as “Maritime” and “Natural Sciences.” The learning process is based on the “learning by doing” principle, involving field trips, nature research, and close cooperation with industries, museums, and the Defence Forces.
Systemic Support The systemic approach in Turku is underpinned by active municipal support. This ranges from providing teachers with “STEAM bags” containing necessary materials to investing in shared infrastructure. A prime example is the “Makers’ Studio,” a co-working space equipped with high-level technology (3D printers, laser cutters) funded by the municipality and available free of charge to university students. The experience confirmed that a functional STEAM approach relies on a mindset rooted in a culture of trust and practical application.
Project Timeline and Next Steps Following the insights gained in Finland, the project activities continued with a “Tech Camp” networking event for students and practical STEAM trainings for educators, which took place in late 2025.
Currently, the “fit4future” project is approaching its conclusion. Partners are preparing for the final event scheduled for March 2026, where they will review the accomplished results and discuss the foundation laid for future cooperation between Latvian and Lithuanian educational institutions.
