University continuing education in Finland

Statistics show that half of the adult population of Finland is engaged in study at some educational institution. The desire among Finns for education is an internationally interesting feature. At governmental level educational policy is considered an important aid in international competition. The concept of lifelong learning is supported in Finnish society by empirical evidence, even if the high appreciation in the social hierarchy for qualifications should also be mentioned as a characteristic feature. The following breakdown describes the organizational levels and forms in which Finnish adult education is realized: liberal education, basic vocational education, education in culture and exercise, basic general education and higher education.