Students are the heart of Otaniemi!

As the majority of Otaniemi residents are higher education students, it is important that their opinions are not overlooked in urban planning, zoning, and service development. Students are the primary users of the campus and the best experts on how to make the area comfortable and functional. The student community’s engagement and love for their neighbourhood helped Otaniemi win the 2023 Neighbourhood of the Year award. Their views should not be dismissed but cherished. 

Otaniemi’s valuable landmark is Otahalli, the renovation of which must be launched immediately in the upcoming council term. The renovation must cause as little inconvenience as possible for the Aalto community members and Espoo residents using the hall. The sports facilities, jointly owned by the City of Espoo and Aalto University, must continue to meet students’ needs for years to come, and the renovation will provide diverse opportunities for sports activities in the future. Sports and well-being are essential to students’ coping and daily life, which is why we must invest in securing them.  

‘Otaniemi is a unique place where student culture, top research, and nature come together. We must ensure that the campus continues to reflect its students, as well as remain vibrant and accessible to all’, outlines Chair of the AYY Board, Sakari Ropponen. 

Espoo must ensure that students have a genuine opportunity to participate in the development of Otaniemi. The campus must remain student-oriented, and the services in the area must meet the residents’ needs. Students are not only users of the campus but also active Espoo residents, whose perspectives should be considered when developing the area.  

Further information: 

Sakari Ropponen, Chair of the AYY Board 
Tel. 040 843 3899 

The statement is part of AYY’s municipal and county election campaign.