Search for next rector of University of Oulu attracts 20 applicants

The search for the next rector of the University of Oulu has attracted 20 applicants by the deadline of July 26, 2024. Notable candidates include former Vice-Rector Helka-Liisa Hentilä, current Vice-Rector for Education Mirja Illikainen, and Vice-Rector for Collaboration Arto Maaninen. However, the name of Jouko Niinimäki, who has served two terms as rector, is not among the applicants.

The list of candidates includes Zahir Aalam, Mba Agwu, Mikael Collan, Tiina Gallén, Mika Hannula, Helka-Liisa Hentilä, Mirja Illikainen, Ville Isoherranen, Maria Sera Jacob, Hussnain Janjua, Maarit Järvenpää, Stanley Paul Katikala, Arto Maaninen, Milad Mafakheri, John Meewella, Riku Parviainen, Eva Raudasoja, Muhammad Usman, P.M. Visakh, and Hailai Weldeslassie.

The university’s board opened the applications for the rector’s position on June 3, 2024, for a five-year term starting in 2025. The board will announce the candidates selected for interviews by August 15, with the final decision on the new rector scheduled to occur in October.