University of Helsinki Global South Network aims to enhance cooperation in research and education related to developing countries at the various campuses of the University of Helsinki, Finland.
Background
Several units in various campuses are doing research and teaching related to developing countries. There is a positive trend of increasing activities related to developing countries and new units are getting involved. It seems worthwhile to join forces and improve the circumstances that would ensure undisrupted continuation of the positive development.
In Viikki Campus, for instance, research and teaching related to developing countries are often associated with utilization and management of natural resources. Hence, networking in the subject area is seen as one of the important goals. Teaching and research related to developing countries require special knowledge and contacts. Former experience as well as intellectual and social capital can be shared through the network. This is especially important when new research groups are starting to work on a subject.
Goal
The main goal of the HUGS Network is to enhance the visibility and impact of developing country- related research and education at the University of Helsinki. By sharing experience, good practises and information, the quality and effectiveness of this subject area can be increased.
Another important goal will be to facilitate student mobility between the University of Helsinki and the universities in the Global South. The exchange should be gradually balanced towards more equal movement to both directions (north-south/ south-north). More students from Helsinki could carry out their Master’s thesis research in a developing country or take specialized courses there. We are striving to increase co-operation with the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs.