Finnish education and science policy emphasises quality, efficiency, equality and the international nature of sci¬ence and promotes the competitiveness of the Finnish welfare society. Sustainable economic development will continue to be the best way to ensure the nation’s cultural, social and economic welfare in the years to come. The basic principles of Finnish education and science policy are in line with the European Union’s Lisbon strategy.
Fundamental educational rights are enshrined in the Constitution of Finland. Every Finnish resident is guaranteed an equal opportunity to obtain education and develop themselves, according to their abilities and needs and irrespective of their financial means. General compulsory schooling and the right to receive pre-primary and basic education free of charge are provided by law, but also tuition in other education and training leading to an educational qualification is free, including university postgraduate education.
Parliament passes legislation governing education and science and determines the basic principles underpin¬ning education and science policy. The Government and the Ministry of Education, as part of it, are re¬sponsible for preparing and implementing education and science policy. The Ministry of Education is re¬sponsible for education and training funded from the state budget. The Government adopts a development plan for education and research every four years.