Board at University of Oulu votes on member disqualification amid rector selection controversy

According to Yle’s reports, the board of the University of Oulu voted on the disqualification of one of its members prior to the selection of a new rector. The vote ended in a tie of 5–5, with Chairman Mikko Ayubin casting the deciding vote. The individual under consideration was permitted to participate in the voting for the rector’s appointment.

The nomination of a new rector became a focal point of discussion after three board members announced their resignations shortly after the new rector was made public. The resigning members have not commented on the reasons for their departures, which has raised questions about the situation. Jussi Kivistö, a professor of administrative science at the University of Tampere, suggested in a previous interview with Yle that the resignations reflect a protest or a lack of trust in the board’s decisions.

Underlying these events are accusations of inappropriate conduct, as the board member who was voted on had accused another candidate nearing the final stages of the rector selection of misconduct about a year ago. This issue has also been covered in the media. Due to the allegations, the university commissioned an independent investigation, which included hearing from both parties involved, but the outcome has yet to be disclosed.

Earlier this year, there were also public discussions regarding the handling of harassment cases at the University of Oulu, with staff criticizing the administration’s approach. According to employee representatives, the university has not treated employees equitably nor addressed the reported issues in harassment and bullying cases adequately.

Yle has reached out to Chairman Ayubin for comment, but he stated he would only comment on the proceedings once the minutes are public, which are expected to be released next week.