I’m Jonne Heikkinen, the Chair of the Representative Council of the Savonia University of Applied Sciences Student Union (SAVOTTA).

I’m reaching out because the nomination period for the Student Union Representative Council elections began at September 22, 2025. Check the schedule for the elections here.

 

What is the Student Union?

The Student Union SAVOTTA is the official advocate for students’ rights and interests across all Savonia campuses in Kuopio, Iisalmi, and Varkaus. SAVOTTA is the second largest student union in Finland.

Our activities are wide-ranging, and many students might not even realize everything that SAVOTTA does. For example, SAVOTTA representatives work in groups that influence the quality of education, organize various events, and recruit and train tutors. SAVOTTA also maintains SYKETTÄ – the higher education sports services – as well as the Student Union cafés.

You may have come across services like opiskelijatoihin.fi mentioned by teachers in class, or noticed the discounts available to SAVOTTA members when exploring the student card. SAVOTTA also hosts popular student events such as Kauppakatu Improbatur and Tahkofest, which takes place at the beginning of the year.

What is the Representative Council?

The Representative Council is a group of students from different fields of study that meets around 4–8 times a year. In these meetings, the council handles key Student Union matters, such as selecting the student member of the Savonia University of Applied Sciences Ltd. Board and appointing student representatives to various committees.

Examples of the Representative Council’s activities in 2025:

• Election of the Chair, Vice Chair, and members of the Board

• Decision on the membership of Open University of Applied Sciences pathway students

• Election of the student representative to the Board of Savonia UAS Ltd

• Processing an initiative concerning facilities

You can find more details about the council’s tasks here.

 

Why run for the Representative Council?

It’s important that students from many different fields are represented in the council. As a member, you’ll have the chance to influence current issues and bring the voice of your field to the table. No prior experience is required—everything is explained, and meeting practices quickly become familiar.

“I’m interested, but I’m not sure if I have the time.” You’re already one step closer!

Serving on the council doesn’t require much time. Meetings last on average 1–2 hours, and council members are not responsible for the Student Union’s active operations such as event planning or tutor training. This means applying is easy and low-threshold.

How to apply?

You can apply either through an election list or as an independent candidate. If you know other students who are applying, you can form an election list together. You can also ask your own student association if they know students who are forming a list.
Being on an election list is not mandatory—you can also apply independently.

During the application period and throughout 2026, you must be a full member of the Student Union. If you are not yet a member, you can join here.

I encourage you to ask your own field’s student association for more information, or drop by the Student Union office. You can also stop me on campus if you see me!