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Education and the Ghanaian diaspora in Finland

Education in Finland was free until 2017

Education in Finland was free until 2017

Today, I focus on educational exploits of Ghanaian migrants in Finland, their work opportunities and the positive image they have created within the Ghanaian migrant community and in Finland generally.

I have been writing about different aspects of the Finnish educational system as well as how it affects migrants in Finland.

There are many positive things that Ghanaian individual migrants have achieved in the area of education that need to be stressed.

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Educational opportunities in Finland

College graduates May 20, 1999

The Finnish education was free until about 2017. The Finnish educational system offers both the majority population and minority (including migrants) the chance to work while studying or after their studies.

Thus, the privilege of education enhances the potential of such migrants who study in Finland to become skilled workers in banks, as lawyers, medical doctors, nurses, engineers, ICT specialists, entrepreneurs, technical and semi-technical personnel in the country.

In recent times, some trained migrants are beginning to find jobs as experts and top-level personnel in the health, educational, and the service sectors of the economy.

Ghanaian migrant graduates

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Many Ghanaian migrants have graduated from educational programmes in recent years, such as in the Health Care (Nursing) courses and other popular English-language study curricula.

Others have been educated in the engineering and technology sector; business and management; computer science and information technology (IT); natural sciences and mathematics; and education and training.

As I wrote some time ago, according to the Study in Finland portal, Finnish higher education institutions currently offer over 500 bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes taught in English. There are also countless doctoral degree programmes (see www.studyinfinland.fi).

Today, from the over 2000 Ghanaian migrants living in Finland, there are hundreds of them who hold the bachelor’s, the master’s, or the PhD degrees. There are also countless others who have graduated with the diploma. 

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Education and the job market

Research has shown that most migrants are gainfully employed either as paid workers or as self-employed entrepreneurs.

Studies show that migrants often have unstable or marginal positions in the Finnish labour market as cleaners, waitresses, and bouncers in pubs.

However, as mentioned already, many Ghanaian migrants have become skilled workers in banks, as lawyers, medical doctors, nurses, engineers, ICT specialists, and entrepreneurs, technical and semi-technical personnel in Finland and they are excelling in their areas of work.

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Gender aspects

Having opportunities to education is very much pronounced for both males and females, without any hindrances along gender lines in terms of admission into programmes and finding a job after graduation.

Although I do not have the specific number of Ghanaian (international) students who are admitted to Finnish universities or who graduated and gain employment, I can say that they are quite visible in Finnish institutions and in the job market in Finland.

In addition, there are those who have ventured into entrepreneurship.  This is an area that is gaining much attention in the entrepreneurial space in Finland.

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Integration and inclusion through education

Finland is committed to the integration of migrants into the Finnish society, and a number of research studies from surveys and other in-depth enquiries have shown a trend of increasing efforts to integrate African and other migrants into the Finnish society.

One key area through which migrants can easily be integrated is the educational sector. For example, the work of the Finnish National Agency for Education is aimed at increasing equality and open-mindedness in education and internationalisation among others, according to information on its website.

One of the key points here is that supporting the integration of migrants, developing the teaching and education of learners with a migrant background and building a diverse society play an important role in achieving those goals (see www.oph.fi/em/news). Thank you!

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The writer is a Ghanaian lecturer in Finland

By Perpetual Crentsil

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Features

Mental health emergency 911

 As the modern workplace continues to evolve, the importance of mental health has become increas­ingly evident. With employ­ees spending a significant portion of their lives at work, it is crucial for organisa­tions to create a supportive environment that promotes mental well-being.

In this article, we will explore the significance of prioritising mental health at work, strategies for imple­mentation, and the benefits of integrating VIRGIN 8.31 neurosoftware into your workplace mental health initiative.

The State of Mental Health at Work

Mental health issues affect one in four people world­wide, with the workplace being a significant contrib­utor to stress, anxiety, and depression. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 15 per cent of working-age adults experience mental health disorders, resulting in:

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– Reduced productivity (up to 40 per cent)

– Increased absenteeism (up to 27per cent)

– Higher turnover rates (up to 25 per cent)

– Decreased job satisfaction

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Why prioritise mental health at work?

Prioritising mental health at work offers numerous ben­efits, including:

1. Improved employee well-being and job satisfac­tion

2. Enhanced productivity and performance

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3. Better talent attraction and retention

4. Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism

5. Increased creativity and innovation

Strategies for implement­ing Mental Health initiatives

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1. Mental Health Days/ Policies: Offer paid mental health days or flexible leave policies.

2. Employee Assistance Pro­grams (EAPs): Provide confi­dential counseling services.

3. Mental Health Training/ Workshops: Educate employ­ees on mental health aware­ness.

4. Open Communication Channels: Encourage open discussions about mental health.

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5. Flexible Work Arrange­ments: Offer flexible sched­ules, remote work options.

6. Wellness Initiatives: Im­plement mindfulness, fitness programs.

7. Manager Training: Ed­ucate managers on mental health awareness.

8. Anonymous Feedback Mechanisms: Allow employees to report concerns anony­mously.

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9. Mental Health Resources: Provide access to counseling, support groups.

10. Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month/ Week: Raise awareness, pro­mote resources.

The Role of VIRGIN 8.31 Neurosoftware

VIRGIN 8.31’s innovative neurosoftware can support workplace mental health initiatives by:

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1. Reducing stress and anxiety

2. Enhancing cognitive function

3. Improving mood regula­tion

4. Promoting relaxation and focus

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Integrating VIRGIN 8.31 into your workplace mental health strategy can create a holistic support system, enhancing employee well-being and productivity.

Implementation and Re­sources

1. Conduct mental health surveys/assessments.

2. Develop a mental health strategy/action plan.

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3. Allocate resources and budget.

4. Train HR and manage­ment.

5. Communicate policies and initiatives.

6. Monitor progress and feedback.

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Resources:

1. World Health Organisa­tion (WHO) Mental Health Resources

2. American Psychological Association (APA) Workplace Mental Health

3. Mental Health America (MHA) Workplace Initiatives

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4. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Work­place Resources

Conclusion

Prioritising mental health at the workplace is crucial for creating a supportive, productive environment. By implementing effective strategies and integrating in­novative solutions like VIRGIN 8.31 neurosoftware, organisa­tions can promote employee well-being, improve perfor­mance, and reduce mental health-related costs.

Call to Action:

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Join the movement to prioritise mental health at work. Take the first step by:

1. Conducting a mental health assessment.

2. Developing a mental health strategy.

3. Integrating VIRGIN 8.31 neurosoftware.

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Together, we can create a healthier, more supportive work environment.

By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson

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Features

 The sleep divorce phenomenon

 sleep divorce, also known as sleep separation, is a growing trend where couples choose to sleep apart from each other, either per­manently or temporarily. This decision can be driven by various factors, ranging from sleep disorders to relation­ship issues. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons, benefits, and challenges of sleep divorce, providing insights and guidance for cou­ples considering this arrange­ment.

Reasons for Sleep Divorce

1. Sleep Disorders: Snor­ing, insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome can disrupt a partner’s sleep, leading to fatigue, irritabili­ty, and resentment.

2. Different Sleep Sched­ules: Shift work, irregular hours, or differing sleep preferences can make sharing a bed challenging.

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3. Personal Space and Comfort: Some individuals require solitude, silence, or specific sleeping conditions to recharge.

4. Relationship Issues: Conflict, intimacy problems, or emotional disconnection can lead couples to seek sep­arate sleeping arrangements.

5. Health Concerns: Cer­tain medical conditions, such as chronic pain or sleepwalk­ing, may necessitate separate sleeping quarters.

Benefits of Sleep Divorce

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1. Improved Sleep Quality: Sleeping apart can lead to better rest, increased energy, and enhanced mental clarity.

2. Increased Productivi­ty: A good night’s sleep can boost productivity, focus, and overall well-being.

3. *Better Mood*: Ad­equate sleep can reduce irritability, anxiety, and depression.

4. Personal Autonomy: Separate sleeping arrange­ments can provide individuals with much-needed alone time.

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5. Relationship Rejuvena­tion: Sleep divorce can help couples rekindle intimacy and connection outside of sleep.

Challenges of Sleep Di­vorce

1. Emotional Distance: Sleeping apart can lead to feelings of disconnection and isolation.

2. Impact on Intimacy: Re­duced physical closeness can affect emotional intimacy and relationship quality.

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3. Logistical Challenges: Separate bedrooms or sleep­ing arrangements can require adjustments.

4. Social Stigma: Some may view sleep divorce as uncon­ventional or problematic.

5. Communication Break­down: Failure to discuss sleep needs and boundaries can exacerbate relationship issues.

Navigating Sleep Divorce

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1. Open Communication: Discuss sleep needs, con­cerns, and boundaries.

2. Set Boundaries: Estab­lish a sleep plan and respect each other’s space.

3. Prioritise Intimacy: Schedule regular date nights or intimate activities.

4. Re-Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess the arrange­ment’s effectiveness.

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5. Seek Professional Help: Consult therapists, sleep specialists, or counsellors for guidance.

Conclusion:

Sleep divorce is not a sign of relationship failure but rather a proactive approach to addressing sleep-related challenges. By understanding the reasons, benefits, and challenges, couples can make informed decisions about their sleep arrangements. Effective communication, mutual respect, and flexibili­ty are key to navigating sleep divorce successfully.

Question: Is sleep divorce a sign of relationship prob­lems?

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Answer: Not necessarily. Sleep divorce can address specific sleep-related issues.

Question: How do we main­tain intimacy while sleeping apart?

Answer: Schedule regular date nights, intimate activi­ties, or meaningful interac­tions.

Question: Will sleep di­vorce affect our social life?

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Answer: Openly commu­nicate your arrangement to friends and family.

Question: Can sleep di­vorce improve our relation­ship?

Answer: Yes, by address­ing sleep-related issues and prioritising intimacy.

By embracing sleep divorce as a viable solution, couples can prioritise their individual sleep needs while nurturing their relationship.

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By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson

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