Student Union

The Student Union of Oulu University of Applied Sciences

The Student Union of Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OSAKO) is a student union that represents all the students of Oulu University of Applied Sciences. Based on the Polytechnic Act (413/2005), the student union represents all Oulu University of Applied Sciences students and offers benefits and services especially to its members. All OSAKO members have a SAMOK student card which offers dozens of benefits and discounts.

OSAKO promotes the interests of students in many ways. For students, the most obvious activities include events at units, student parties, activities by student tutors, Club KulttuRally’s trips and activities as well as benefits available with the student card. OSAKO advises students and represents them in problem situations and cooperates with the University of Applied Sciences in all study-related matters. Students also receive help from the guide books and other publications of the student union.

The decisions and activities of the student union, which is independent from the University of Applied Sciences, are made by the students. The student union’s 25-member body of representatives, which is elected by a vote in the autumn, has the highest decision-making power and its activities are the responsibility of a board and employees. Students have many opportunities to participate in OSAKO activities either by doing or experiencing.

The purpose of the National Union of Finnish Polytechnic Students (SAMOK ry) is to function as a national interest group of polytechnic students and a central organisation of student unions and student associations of polytechnics and organisations in the field of education, promoting and monitoring the general and joint interests and rights of polytechnic students, especially in educational and social policy issues.

In addition to the student union, education sector organisations that organise events, sell student overalls, offer member services and act as a link between the students, the unit, administration and the student union, operate within units of the Oulu University of Applied Sciences. Education sector organisations do not have a statutory position within the University of Applied Sciences; instead, they work together with OSAKO.

Raahen Ammattikorkeakouluopiskelijat Ry [Raahe polytechnic students]

Raahen Ammattikorkeakouluopiskelijat ry (RAmko ry) is a public utility association founded and registered in 1972 whose purpose is to offer affordable services to support the studies of the students of Raahe School of Engineering and Business. The association also organises many different kinds of events and supports the opportunities of its members for leisure time activities. Raahen Ammattikorkeakouluopiskelijat ry's interest groups are OSAKO ry and SAMOK ry.

In addition, the interests of students are promoted by The Finnish Union of Engineering Students and Tradenomiopiskelijaliitto [Union of Bachelors of Business Administration].