10.3.2022

Åbo Akademi University founds a new council for culture

Åbo Akademi University establishes a special culture council to support the cultural scene at ÅAU. According to Rector’s decision, the task of the Culture Council is “to work for a rich and diverse cultural life at the Academy”. It is especially in regards to student culture, but space shall also be created for others who can enrich Åbo Akademi University’s cultural life.

The Council has at its disposal an annual budget which the Åbo Akademi University Foundation allocates to Åbo Akademi University for this purpose. This year, the sum is 50,000 euros.

At ÅAU, there are many who can benefit from this, such as the student choirs and the academic orchestra (Akademiska Orkestern) who have previously received grants, but other actors can also apply for funding.

“Previously, this type of application for support for cultural activities was granted directly by Rector or the foundation. Establishing the new culture council makes this process smoother and more transparent, while the council can work to promote Åbo Akademi University’s cultural life further and on a broader level,” explains Dean Peter Nynäs, chair of the Culture Council.

“Student culture in all its forms is an important and central element in Åbo Akademi University’s campus environments and identity,” says Nynäs.

The council consists of representatives of the teaching staff from each faculty, representatives from the Student Union and a representative from the Åbo Akademi University Foundation. The Financial Director acts as the council’s secretary and is responsible for payments.