Turku opens school facilities for evening use to support children and prevent gang formation

The city of Turku is effectively opening its school facilities for evening use, driven by concerns for the well-being of children and young people, according to Change Manager Anu Parantainen. This initiative also aims to prevent gang formation. “The more children are engaged in hobbies and guided activities, the less disruptive behavior we see,” she stated.

The reform has commenced with the Pansio and Suikkila schools in the western part of Turku, with plans to include Lauste School soon. This initiative is reportedly the most extensive of its kind in Turku, a city recognized for its pioneering multi-purpose facilities. Similar efforts are underway in other areas of Finland, such as Lahti.

While schools have not been entirely empty in the evenings before, various organizations and citizen groups have previously reserved spaces. Additionally, extracurricular activities have been organized with funding from the educational authority.

At Pansio School, an evening language club for mothers is in operation, led by Finnish language teacher Mariam Salo, who has already engaged dozens of women. The school collaborates with the nationwide “Let’s Read Together” network, which supports language learning and integration for immigrant women by providing volunteer-led literacy education across the country.

Salo highlighted that many in the school community are relatively new to Finland. Mothers with children under seven are welcome to bring them to the sessions if childcare isn’t available. “The aim is to enhance their Finnish skills so they can support their children’s education and language learning effectively.”

In addition, Pansio School hosts outdoor adventure activities. Students and instructors participate in various programs regardless of the weather, promoting group skills and social interaction. As the evening use of school facilities expands, challenges such as funding for supplies and maintenance are being addressed, with the expectation that utilization prevents vandalism by keeping spaces lively.