South Savo 2nd stakeholder meeting
New Talents for the Region – let's take lessons from Europe!
Attracting and retaining talent in South Savo presents both a significant challenge and a unique opportunity for the region’s future growth. On 5 February 2025, Mikkeli hosted an important event that brought together a diverse group of regional stakeholders, including representatives from educational institutions, development organizations, and local businesses. The aim of the gathering was clear: to brainstorm, develop, and implement strategies that would not only attract new talent to South Savo but also ensure that those who arrive remain in the region, contributing to its long-term prosperity.
In order to spark innovative ideas and solutions, the event turned to successful European models. A key source of inspiration came from European project partners who shared valuable insights and best practices on how to make regions more attractive to skilled professionals and retain them in the long run.
One standout example was the NODI network, based in Sardinia. Federico Esu, the founder of NODI, presented the community-driven model that has helped strengthen social and human capital in the region. The NODI network aims to connect local residents, those who have moved away, and those considering relocation to Sardinia, fostering a sense of belonging, collaboration, and mutual support. Its focus on continuous learning, networking, and community engagement resonated deeply with attendees, sparking ideas on how a similar network could be developed in South Savo. By building bridges between people, businesses, and educational institutions, the region could transform itself into a vibrant, dynamic hub that attracts and nurtures talent.
Another significant contribution came from the Creative Center Skladová (CCS), a pioneering initiative introduced by Patrik Ondrejech. The center has focused its efforts on retaining young talent in the region by providing cutting-edge facilities, offering practical programs, and ensuring close cooperation with local businesses and authorities. The model blends education with hands-on industrial experience, making it an attractive proposition for young professionals who seek both knowledge and practical applications in their fields. The success of CCS demonstrated how the combination of education and industry could help South Savo nurture its homegrown talent, preventing a "brain drain" and fostering long-term economic development.
The central takeaway from the event was unequivocal: addressing the region's skills gap and increasing its attractiveness to talent cannot be achieved by any one organization or sector in isolation. It requires a broad, collaborative approach involving a range of stakeholders, including businesses, educational institutions, local authorities, and residents. By building on the successful European models and tailoring them to South Savo's unique needs, the region can create innovative solutions that will both attract new talent and retain existing skills for the future.
In conclusion, the event demonstrated that with a clear vision and a commitment to cooperation, South Savo can overcome its challenges and position itself as a thriving, talent-rich region in Finland.