Science and art came together at the theatre at the opening of the academic year – see photo highlights

The 2026–2027 academic year was officially opened on 8 September at a celebration held at Oulu Theatre, bringing the university community together to celebrate achievements in science and education and welcome the new academic year.
Juhlaväkeä Oulun teatterin lämpiössä.
Paula Rossi johdattaa professorikulkueen katsomoon.
Professors arrive at the theatre auditorium. At the front Paula Rossi, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities.
Airuet rivissä airuenauhat yllään.
Student heralds helped guide the ceremony and uphold its academic traditions.
Oulun yliopiston kamariorkesteri teatterin lavalla.
Music for the opening ceremony was performed by the University of Oulu Chamber Orchestra under the direction of conductor Sinikka Ala-Leppilampi.
Yleisöä teatterin katsomossa, valkokankaalla esitys naisten terveydestä.
Science takes the stage at Oulu Theatre.
Juhlaväkeä teatterin lämpiössä.
The post-ceremony reception filled the theatre foyer with lively conversation.

Speakers highlighted women’s health, the evolution of mobile networks and excellence in teaching

Petteri Alahuhta puhujanpöntössä ja airuet lippuvartiossa.
In his address at the opening of the academic year, Rector Petteri Alahuhta emphasised the importance of science and interdisciplinary research.
Jonne Haapala värikäs frakki yllään.
The student greeting was delivered by Jonne Haapala, Chair of the Executive Board of the Student Union of the University of Oulu. His colourful tailcoat featured the colours of student overalls from all student organisations.
Terhi Piltonen.
Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Terhi Piltonen highlighted the importance of women’s health, noting that it affects us all and deserves greater attention in research and healthcare.
Nurul Huda Mahmood.
Senior research fellow Nurul Huda Mahmood highlighted Finland’s key role in the evolution of mobile networks and envisioned future networks connecting people, devices and artificial intelligence.
Heli Maijanen puhujanpöntössä.
Award-winning university lecturer in archaeology Heli Maijanen emphasised that the role of university education is to help students grow into experts in their field.
Petteri Alahuhta kättelee Sumit Ghoshia.
University Researcher Sumit Ghosh (pictured), Professor Ali Mobasheri and Development Manager Anne Salmi were recognised for advancing the university’s values.
Created 18.9.2026 | Updated 18.9.2026