Hi, I am Eino Salama Mervola. I am running for President of the SAMOK Board for 2027. I believe in bold, visible, and solution-oriented advocacy.
The everyday life of UAS students is in transition. We need a SAMOK that fights for student livelihoods, quality education, and study ability more boldly than ever before.
Students must be able to focus on studying. Amidst cuts and rising prices, SAMOK must be at the forefront demanding sustainable financial aid and a humane student life without constant student debt. Studying should not be a struggle for survival, but an opportunity to build the future. Therefore, we must ensure that mental health services are accessible and higher education remains high-quality even amidst scarcity.
When I started my studies at the university of applied sciences, I received a very warm welcome that I did not expect. This feeling of belonging materialized especially on SAMOK's 'Lähtölaukaus' cruise: I was surrounded by students who invited me in and made sure no one was left alone. I want to be part of maintaining this community and ensuring that everyone is welcome.
The appreciation of a UAS degree is maintained only by high-quality teaching. The continuous cycle of cuts in universities of applied sciences endangers the quality of education, which is why the government must stop saving measures and secure the long-term nature of funding. Mass lectures and self-study cannot replace the support of experts. Degrees from the open university must not be merchandise! Furthermore, the Master's degree (YAMK) must finally be renamed as 'UAS Master' so that its value is properly recognized in the labor market.
I am Eino Salama Mervola, an Industrial Management engineering student and a long-time student activist. I have learned in the organizational field that things only change by doing, negotiating, and questioning old operating models.
My background is diverse: I have worked in various organizations, including the board, led the BISCO student association board, been responsible for advocacy at the student union METKA, and worked both as an IT specialist and in the core of retail. I combine political understanding with practical action. My main goal is to make SAMOK's voice heard and to drive the values that SAMOK's general assembly has set as goals.
In 2027, SAMOK needs a president who is not afraid to step forward, who knows how to listen to student unions from the grassroots level to the general assemblies, and who understands how to build a community where everyone is accepted exactly as they are.
7+
Years of organizational experience
100%
Commitment to the cause
" Eino brought a warm and caring attitude to the board right from the start. His authentic interest in student welfare and the development of future student's rights can be seen in every conversation, whether it be an official meeting or a relaxed chat over a cup of coffee.- Ossi Pirinen, Chairperson of the Board of METKA
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Let's make 2027 the year of students together, and let's do it Lightning (or Salama) fast. Follow the campaign on social media, get in touch, and don't be afraid to ask more.