10.12.2021
"Partnership in the implementation of the Finnish model of hobbies is an opportunity for the Regional Assembly"
This was stated by Heli Hietala, Regional Director of the 4H organisation, when he told the Northern Ostrobothnia Regional Assembly about 4H's experiences of participating in organizing clubs and coordinating activities in connection in cooperation with the school. Hietala stated that through the activities, the Regional Assembly can reach out comprehensively to school pupils in the locality, familiarize itself in cooperation with its own basic activities and possibly find new enthusiastic members for longer-term activities as well. According to 4H's experience, the model has intensified cooperation in localities and the Regional Assembly has been able to implement important practices through clubs, such as the entrepreneurship education model in 4H's case..
"Partnership in the Finnish model of hobbies therefore offers the Regional Assembly opportunities for development and growth" notes Hietala.
The implementation of clubs also places demands on Regional Assemblys. They must have the know-how and experience of working in cooperation with children and young people, as well as the ability to implement club content according to their wishes. It is important that children are provided in cooperation with high-quality activities and good experiences that inspire them to continue their hobby.
As a long-term organizational actor, it has been easy for 4H Regional Assemblys to get involved in the implementation of the model. Its expertise is of a high standard and the infrastructure is in good condition. There are many local Regional Assemblys and activities in cooperation with children. The contents of the clubs, such as cooking and handicrafts, are basic. Challenges have also been identified along the way. The times of the clubs differ from the normal activities of the Regional Assembly, the coronavirus has brought a coefficient of difficulty to the practical activities; There is room for improvement in the flow of information and coordination of activities. Local coordination is needed, and 4H has also taken responsibility in this role.
All in all, 4H has experienced its participation in the Finnish model in a positive way. Heli Hietala encourages other organisations to join in. "The Finnish model of coaching offers many opportunities for Regional Assemblys and they should actively offer their cooperation in the implementation of club activities". The importance of the model is highlighted by the fact that its development has been highlighted as one of the key projects of the Regional Programme for Northern Ostrobothnia 2022-2025. All stakeholders are therefore needed to make the model a way of working that meets the needs of Northern Ostrobothnia.
The meeting of the Northern Ostrobothnia Organisational Advisory Board held on 9 December 2021 was the last of its four-year term. Action is considered important. The decision on setting up the advisory board for the upcoming Regional Assembly term will be made at the last meeting of the the Board of the Regional Assembly during the year.
The news was written by Auli Suorsa, Cultural Affairs Specialist / Regional Assembly of Oulu Region
More information:
- The Finnish model of hobbies
- on the activities of the 4H organisation
- the Regional Assembly of Oulu Region
(Planning Director Ilpo Tapaninen tel. 358 (0)50 301 7546)
