MetGO launched the academic year at the Arabia Campus

Music filled four stages across the Arabia Campus as the Metropolia community gathered for MetGO, the opening event of the academic year. Finland's largest cultural campus was filled with music, connections and a strong sense of community as students and staff celebrated the start of the new academic year together.

MetGO is the annual opening event of the academic year for the Metropolia community. It offers an opportunity to meet others, learn more about the university and strengthen community spirit across different fields of study and professional areas. Students, staff and members of the wider university community gathered at the Arabia Campus. A diverse range of stands brought together student organisations and services, showcasing the broad range of activities and opportunities available at Metropolia.

Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed a diverse programme of culture and music. Four stages hosted performances ranging from student-led music productions and communal singing to energetic performances on the main stage. The exhibition area featured student projects from different fields, highlighting the expertise, creativity and multidisciplinary collaboration taking place at Metropolia.

The community was also welcomed by Metropolia's new President and CEO, Marko Hakovirta, who sees students as the university's most important starting point:

“Whenever I think about Metropolia and my role here, one thing stands out above all: our students. Our task is to educate the professionals needed for the future of the Helsinki metropolitan area and Finland as a whole. We want to give our students the knowledge, skills and capabilities they need to build their own futures while also helping to shape the world of work and society around them. Fulfilling this mission requires strong collaboration both within Metropolia and with companies, cities, other higher education institutions and international networks.”

Hakovirta's message also reflected the spirit of MetGO: students are at the heart of the community, and collaboration, participation and meaningful encounters create the foundation for future expertise and wellbeing.

Before the main event, staff members had the opportunity to attend MetGO Pre-Event, which focused on wellbeing at work and community spirit. The day also included the presentation of the 2026 Ratkaisija Award, recognising impactful work and collaboration within the Metropolia community.