The journey was planned during the project application phase when the aim was to create a unique international master's programme that combines food business and gastronomy.
– We knew then that Ireland, similar to Finland, excels in food exports. On this trip, we wanted to learn how universities and the public sector collaborate, says Vice Dean Janna Pietikäinen.
The travel team included, in addition to Pietikäinen, Dean Mari Sandell, Sulo Roukka, and Laura Tikkanen. They aimed to uncover the factors behind success, particularly the education, research, and collaboration models that make Ireland a leader.
– Ireland has a holistic ecosystem where the public sector, universities, and businesses support each other in the food sector, Pietikäinen summarises.
The team visited two Irish universities:
UCD, Ireland's largest university with around 40,000 students, features an expansive campus and the separate
– We learned about the role of separate research institutes, which are key to interdisciplinary research and help break down silos, Pietikäinen reflects.
For example, the
According to Pietikäinen, UCD offers excellent support for students.
– The campus includes facilities such as a sports hall, park, and a pond, as well as a cinema – and even a poetry jukebox that plays that plays English and Irish language poems outdoors.
At Technological University Dublin, there are strong ties to industry and well-equipped teaching laboratories, some dedicated to chocolate or wine, including a teaching distillery. This practical-oriented university has over 800 industry partners and more than 80 years of experience in culinary education.
The team was convinced that Irish universities successfully combine a long history, practical expertise, and modern research, providing a strong foundation for food export success.
In Ireland, food is a national strategic priority. The government, universities, and businesses work closely together to develop the food industry, education, and research.
– We were particularly impressed by the
The programme is implemented in collaboration with
Students receive free education and a living stipend while working for 6-7 months in Bord Bia offices worldwide, conducting market analyses and projects. Businesses benefit from skilled student labour at minimal cost.
Bord Bia has offices in cities such as London, Düsseldorf, Amsterdam, Paris, Madrid, Milan, New York, Dubai, Singapore, and Shanghai.
The student selection process is rigorous, focusing on psychological assessments, two interview rounds, work experience, language skills, and commitment to the food sector.
Public funding allows for the hiring of top instructors, systematic tracking of project success, and continuous development of education, making the investment worthwhile from the perspective of the Irish government.
Pietikäinen believes that Finland could build its own version of the Irish model by integrating its best elements.
– The key is combining theoretical learning with practical experience, alongside strong collaboration between businesses and the public sector, she states.
It is also crucial to select students for the future food business and gastronomy master's programme who have intrinsic motivation for promoting international food business and who are passionate advocates for Finnish cuisine.
– I would encourage students to consider international exchange during their undergraduate studies. It is valuable experience and demonstrates motivation for international roles.
During the trip, the image of Ireland as a nation where "everyone breathes food" was reinforced. Food is intertwined with culture – music, dance, and stories – and serves as a significant export sector.
Ireland has successfully elevated its food image internationally, and the connection between food and culture supports both business and education.
– This is not just a cultural phenomenon, but also a vibrant food industry that places Irish cuisine on the global map, Pietikäinen emphasises.
Next, the master's programme team will head to Copenhagen, known as a food capital, to visit its universities and later explore other European destinations as part of their learning journeys.