New report on Finnish and Norwegian folk high schools

A new Finnish–Norwegian report examines how folk high schools promote sustainable development and global citizenship in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4.7 (SDG 4.7). Based on responses from a large share of folk high schools in both countries, the study shows a strong, shared commitment to sustainability,  alongside clear national differences in priorities, pedagogical approaches and development needs.

In both Finland and Norway, sustainability is deeply embedded in everyday education rather than treated as a separate topic. Teaching commonly addresses issues such as human rights, environmental responsibility, sustainable lifestyles and solidarity. While the values are largely shared, the report highlights different emphases: Finnish folk high schools stand out for their strong pedagogical integration of sustainability, while Norwegian schools place particular focus on climate issues, sustainable lifestyles and global citizenship.

The report also reveals differences in how sustainability is taught and practiced. Finnish schools often emphasise experiential learning, nature-based education and sustainability as part of daily school life. Norwegian schools more frequently work through projects and cooperation with local communities and external partners. Environmental action is widespread in both countries, but with different focal points, reflecting broader educational and societal contexts.

Alongside these strengths, the study identifies common challenges. Sustainability work is not yet fully systematic, and schools in both countries point to the need for clearer structures, practical teaching materials, staff training and stronger cooperation.

The findings of the report will be presented and discussed in an open webinar on 18 May 2026, 15.00–16.00 (Helsinki time). The webinar will highlight the key insights and invite reflection on what the similarities and differences mean in practice and how folk high schools can further strengthen their role in advancing sustainable development and global citizenship.

The webinar is hosted by Bridge 47 together with Finnish Folk High Schools and Norways Folkehøgskolerådet as part of the Building Bridges for Sustainable Development initiative. 

Webinar link: https://zoom.us/j/93651137687?pwd=9bA5QQqautNvGYAFo5jpP2ZtWwgHCA.1 

The study was conducted as part of the Building Bridges project (https://www.kansanopistot.fi/suomenkansanopistoyhdistys/kehitamme/hankk…), an Erasmus+ initiative funded by the European Union and carried out in cooperation between Finnish and Norwegian folk high schools. The project focuses on advancing sustainable development and global citizenship (SDG 4.7) by supporting the sharing of good practices, providing comparative insights, and promoting the long-term development of sustainability work in folk high schools.