110 Years of Swedish-Language Agronomy Education Celebrated in Turku
This autumn marks the 110th anniversary of the launch of Swedish-language agronomy education in Finland. The milestone will be celebrated on 3 October 2026 at Novia University of Applied Sciences' new Axelia campus in Turku, bringing together students, alumni, lecturers, and industry representatives.
Agronomy education began on 2 October 1916 at Trädgårdsgatan in Turku. In 2004, the programme moved to Raseborg, and in autumn 2026 a new generation of students will once again begin their studies in Turku.
"Over the past 110 years, approximately 2,500 agronomy graduates have completed their studies. Domestic food production has always been vital to Finland and remains just as important today. A Bachelor of Natural Resources (Agronomist) degree is a profession of the future, and there is a growing demand for Swedish-speaking agronomists. The vast majority of our graduates find employment within the sector, often already during the year they graduate," says Lars Fridefors, Lecturer in Bioeconomy at Novia University of Applied Sciences.
The anniversary programme begins with guided tours of the Axelia campus at Biskopsgatan 8. The day will also include greetings from Novia's Vice President Eva Sandberg-Kilpi and Micaela Ström, Chair of the Agronomists' Association.
During the seminar, participants will discuss the significance of agronomy education for society today and in the future. Topics such as security of supply, climate adaptation, technological development, and entrepreneurship will be addressed by policymakers, industry representatives, and alumni. Among the speakers are Member of Parliament Anders Norrback, Bjarne Westerlund, Director of the Finnish Household Society (Finska Hushållningssällskapet), and Anders Vahtola from Turun Konekeskus.
The day concludes with a panel discussion in which former and current students, together with practising agronomists, will share their experiences of how the education has influenced their careers and the development of the sector.
Interest in the anniversary celebration has been considerable.
"A total of 300 people have registered for the seminar and the evening celebration. It will be a major gathering of agronomists and demonstrates that the strong sense of community traditionally developed during studies continues throughout working life. Professional networks are highly valuable in the field, and their foundations are established during one's studies. Over the years, the programme has evolved to meet new challenges within the industry. As we celebrate the first 110 years, we are also looking ahead to the next century," says Lars Fridefors.
The evening celebration will be organised by the Agronomists' Association at the historic former fire station, Brankis, in Turku. Participants will enjoy Finnish food, live music, and the opportunity to reconnect with fellow students and industry colleagues from different generations.
Anniversary Programme
Date: Saturday, 3 October 2026
Time: 12:00-17:00 (including guided tours of the new campus)
Venue: Biskopsgatan 8, Turku
Programme: Novia's Agronomy Education Celebrates its 110th Anniversary
Contact
Lars Fridefors
Lecturer, Novia University of Applied Sciences
lars.fridefors@novia.fi
+358 44 762 3730
Sender
Jenny Svartsjö
Communications Director, Novia University of Applied Sciences
+358 50 561 7803