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The Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland
30.04.2026
In Joensuu and Kuopio we once again heard the speeches of the Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland (ISYY) on Vappu Eve (May Day).
After ISYY’s Vappu Parade in Joensuu at the Students’ Vappu Event in Ilosaari, we heard the speech held by Nox Herranen, the 1st Vice Chair of ISYY Representative Council, and in Kuopio at the ISYY’s Pool Event in Kuopio Market Square the speech was held by Janina Gunnar, the Chair of the ISYY Representative Council.
Both speeches were first held in Finnish and then briefly in English. Below you can see the translations of the speeches in English.
Dear fellow students and other May Day celebrators, it is once again that time of the year when we can take a small break from our studies, put on our overalls and gather together to enjoy the May Day feeling along with mead and donuts.
However, there are some things that really dampen the mood, especially the cuts that have been targeted towards students. May is the last month where the monthly student aid with its housing supplement will be making its way into the bank accounts of students nationwide unless one applies for summer aid separately. In addition, the summer job market is in such bad shape right now that I’d imagine many of you guys are pondering how you’ll make it through the summer financially when there are no jobs available and there aren’t enough courses going on in the summer.
In addition, there are many wars going on around the globe, people are dying of hunger and climate change is affecting our habitats worldwide. Many of us might feel anxious for one reason or another. At least I am.
I was interviewed for a magazine called Apu a few months back. In the interview I talked openly and honestly about my personal background as someone who has their roots in a working class family. I talked about how I have to work because I need to pay for everything from my laptop to rent by myself. I also talked about how embarrassed I feel when I have to ask my low-income parents for financial aid because they’re not doing any better than I am and I also mentioned how I sometimes have to collect bottles in order to last until my next payday. I wanted to become the face of those students who are from working class families, lived in the countryside and made it to university via good grades and sheer will. I actively monitored the discourse online, and received a lot of sympathy but also hate comments. Apparently I’m too rich because I work part time in a fast food restaurant and own a 20-year-old car that needs some work done and which I fill up with only the absolute necessary amount of fuel. And apparently I also look like I’m healthy but also sick at the same time… But to be honest, I don’t really care about thoughts from people, who use Facebook comments as a coping mechanism.
There are lots of different people within our community at the university, and I think that’s a huge advantage. Some people came straight from high school, others have had one, two or a few gap years and some are older people who have decided to switch professions. Some students are able to invest their student loans and some people, myself included, will do anything to make their last pennies last for longer. Despite all of these factors, we are all part of the same community. Communities are important for everyone, and I’m sure many of us here today in Ilosaari have their currently most important or closest communities within the university.
So, let’s forget all other worries for now and enjoy each other’s company for at least this one day, because May Day is only once a year.
Happy May Day, remember to take care of your friends.
Nox Herranen, the 1st Vice Chair of the ISYY Representative Council
Dear students and people of Kuopio, we have gathered here in the heart of Kuopio, at the “Muailman napa”, to celebrate spring, education, and our student community.
Many of us have a hardworking academic year behind us, one that is not measured merely by the number of credits earned. We have worked hard in lectures and over exam books, completed practical trainings, and collaborated on projects, each in our own field. Today, we get to rejoice in everything we have learned and experienced. I hope you remember to be proud of yourself.
The student years are unique. We don't just study for our degrees; we grow as individuals, build lifelong friendships, and lay the foundation for a better tomorrow. We possess a vast amount of expertise, passion, and caring. From this very market square spring the creators, problem-solvers, and innovators of the future.
During Vappu, we also have an excellent opportunity to celebrate our wonderful community. I want to thank everyone who has given their valuable time for the common good in one way or another during the academic year. Through your actions, you create a sense of community and make it possible for all of us to enjoy student life. Let us therefore continue to hold onto this shared spirit. Let's take care of each other, encourage our peers when studies get overwhelming, and remember to celebrate both our own and each other's successes.
Let's now enjoy Vappu to the fullest and celebrate the fact that we are here together. With these words, I want to wish you all a joyful Vappu! Thank you!
Janina Gunnar, the Chair of the ISYY Representative Council