Funding cuts threaten educational materials for students with disabilities in Finland

Funding cuts made by the government are also impacting the production of educational materials by the Finnish Association of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (Kehitysvammaliitto). In September, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health decided to terminate funding for the association’s learning material center (Opike), which has been operational for more than 30 years. This center has produced easy-to-read educational materials for schools, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and other subjects. In recent years, its funding totaled €315,000, which will cease at the end of this year.

Susanna Hintsala, the executive director of Kehitysvammaliitto, stated that funding is being cut despite ongoing negotiations for new sources. Discussions have been held with the Ministry of Education and Culture, but no commitments for funding have been secured. As a result of this decision, the learning material center has had to suspend the development of new literacy materials and resources for TELMA training, which prepares students with special needs for work and independent living.

Hintsala emphasized that tailored learning materials are an issue of equality. Approximately 10 percent of all basic education students receive special support, and around 30,000 students are enrolled in vocational special education. “How can we in Finland leave one group without suitable learning materials? Is this truly wise?” she questioned.

Moreover, state grants for social and health organizations, known as STEA grants, will be reduced across the board starting in 2025. A total cut of €18-21 million will affect the continuation of grants for various organizations, with significantly fewer new grants allocated next year compared to previous years.