Behind the scenes – Shaping the Future of Digital Skills in Finland
The UPRAISE consortium came together again for its 2nd Transnational Project Meeting, hosted by Aalto University and Aalto EE on 26–27 May 2026 at the Otaniemi campus in Espoo, Finland. Over 50 participants joined for two days of workshops and collaborative sessions to present results, align on upcoming activities and agree on next steps.
The agenda covered a lot of ground — curriculum and training programme development, the digital learning infrastructure, programme delivery and evaluation planning for the upcoming cycle, and the integration of microcredentials and Europass Digital Credentials. There was also a dedicated session on aligning the curriculum work with the digital platform — a key step as the project moves into its next phase.
One of the highlights was the T4.1 industry workshop. We had the opportunity to present preliminary findings from the skills needs analysis and, importantly, to hear directly from companies and industry representatives outside the consortium. Their perspectives on skill gaps in virtual worlds and advanced digital technologies added something valuable to the discussion.
Partners also had the chance to learn about Aalto University and Aalto EE’s work, visit Aalto’s laboratory facilities, and enjoy some Finnish pastries along the way. The social dinner at Fat Lizard on the first evening gave everyone a chance to continue the conversations in a more relaxed setting.
Good workshops, good discussions, and a solid foundation for the work ahead. Thank you to all partners who made the trip to Espoo.
About UPRAISE
UPRAISE (Upskilling and Reskilling in Advanced Digital Skills for Virtual Worlds) is a three-year project running from 2024 to 2027, co-funded by the European Union under the Digital Europe Programme. The project develops higher education programmes, modular training courses, and a shared digital learning platform to address growing skill needs in virtual worlds and advanced digital technologies. Coordinated by the University of Bologna, the consortium brings together 26 partners — including 9 higher education institutions, 8 industry players, and 9 hubs, RTOs and VET organisations — along with 7 associated partners from 11 European countries. Aalto University and Aalto EE represent Finland in the consortium.
