Would you like to influence matters that concern your profession? Get involved in OAJ’s activities!
Being an OAJ union representative gives you the opportunity to influence common matters in your profession, foster an appreciation for your profession and build networks with other people working in the field of education, training and research. The work of union representatives is priceless!
You don’t need to do everything yourself – you will have a big group of people supporting you. Anyone who wishes to influence matters related to their profession can contribute to the union’s activities.
How to join the union’s activities
The most natural place to start taking part in union activities is at the local level. You can get started by contacting your local association or your teachers’ association. The associations provide their representatives with training, so new representatives are not required to have any special skills or knowledge – your enthusiasm is enough!
The members of the boards of local and sub-associations are elected in annual meetings, and any union member can become a candidate.
Take part in NOPE training
Young teachers and recent graduates are often inspired to take part in union activities through NOPE training (NOPE is a portmanteau of the Finnish words “young teachers”).
If you have been working in the field for less than five years or you are under the age of 35, you should consider NOPE training. The training provides peer support as well as information that you can pass on to other young teachers by becoming a NOPE trainer yourself.
Make a difference in Council elections
Another way to take part in OAJ’s activities is by participating in the Council elections.
As the Council members hold the highest decision-making authority in the union, the elections offer great opportunities to influence how the field of education, research and training is promoted.