Throughout its existence, SYL has tirelessly defended and looked after the interests of university students in Finland.
The National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) turns 100 years old in 2021.
The National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) represents approximately 130,000 university students in Finland. All student unions in Finnish universities are members of SYL. SYL was established in 1921 to promote student well-being and the role and status of students in society.
Throughout its existence, SYL has tirelessly defended and looked after the interests of university students in Finland as their only interest group. The student meal subsidy, student health care and student financial aid are just some examples of SYL’s achievements.
As part of the big anniversary year, we will compile the 100-year history of SYL into an interesting publication, so that future generations may also look back on the history and achievements of the university student movement. To celebrate the anniversary year, we will also film a documentary featuring memorable interviews, snippets from SYL’s history, and a compact look at the future of the organisation.
Become part of the anniversary year – let's make history together!
“School of Influence Sciences”
Today’s Finland is created in many ways by Finnish students. The National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) has been described as “Finland’s largest mafia” and “School of Influence”. Numerous influencers of the union have risen to central positions in Finnish society.
SYL has been an international co-operation organization, a service organization, an interest group, a political forum, a youth organization, and an NGO – often all at the same time.
Sukupolvensa ääni describes the student movement from the early stages of independent Finland to the present day. It provides a peephole for the lives, ideas, and aspirations of students for a hundred years.
Order Sukupolvensa ääni – SYL ja suomalainen opiskelijaliike 1921-2021 now from SYL’s online store!
What is SYL?
The National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL) is an organisation that represents approximately 132,000 university students in Finland. All student unions in Finnish universities are members of SYL. SYL was established in 1921 to promote student well-being and the role and status of students in society.
SYL 100 Years blogs
Welcome to the SYL 100 Years blog! In this blog, we will publish articles from both current and past SYL members as well as interesting titbits about the history of the National Union of University Students in Finland (SYL).