International students help build a diverse Kuopio

“It’s not just about integration, but about belonging”

The establishment of the Kuopio International Student Council strengthens the voice of international students and supports their integration into the community. The council’s chair and vice chair, originally from Pakistan and Yemen, appreciate Kuopio’s peacefulness, quality of life, and opportunities.

The City of Kuopio has launched the Kuopio International Student Council. The council’s vice chair, Mohammed Salem Ba Shoaib, believes that diversity can evolve into dialogue — a conversation where every culture adds its own color to the city’s identity, and everyone together can create a truly international Kuopio.

Behind the establishment of the council is the city’s aim to connect international students with one another so that they receive better support. The council works actively with the city’s integration task force, helping to influence local decision-making.

“The goal is to make international students more visible and to promote their social and economic integration,” says the council’s chair, Noor e Sehar Butt.

The forest is a source of inspiration for Noor

Originally from Pakistan, Noor has lived in Finland for a year. In her home country, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy and worked in the healthcare sector. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Health at the University of Eastern Finland.

“So far, my studies have been challenging and quite competitive, but I believe they will be rewarding,” Noor says.

One of the biggest changes in her life has been adjusting to a new diet — though she has learned to enjoy Finnish food. Another adjustment has been the higher food prices; everything was much cheaper back home.

Noor enjoys taking part in community events in Kuopio, and one of her favorite ways to relax alongside her studies is to go for walks in nature.

“It’s my personal time, but it also helps me focus and see things from different perspectives. The forest inspires me — it gives me strength and new insights,” she describes.

At first, Noor was nervous because she didn’t know what kind of environment she would encounter or how people would treat her. However, her fears eased when strangers smiled at her on the street.

“It boosts your confidence and creates a feeling of safety. This is a safe culture where people not only help you but also make you feel like you belong and are welcome. You shouldn’t hesitate to ask for help here — many people are willing to assist you. It’s best to come to Finland with an open mind and try to adapt to the culture.”

Noor feels that Finland has given her a new identity and a new home.

Mohammed is happy about his move to Kuopio

Trained as a physician, Mohammed is originally from Hadhramout, Yemen. As a teenager, his dream was to find a cure for cancer. Later, he realized that in order to make a real impact in medicine, he needed to focus on public health.

“I applied to Master’s programs around the world, but many experts advised me to choose Finland. So I came here to study for a Master’s degree in Public Health,” Mohammed says.

He was convinced by the high quality of education and the peaceful environment. In Kuopio, he found a combination of strong health science research, safety, and beautiful nature.

“During my studies, I worked for Doctors Without Borders and another NGO. I gained a year of valuable work experience that helped me understand Finnish working life,” Mohammed explains.

Currently, he works part-time and is looking for a full-time position in administration or public health.

In winter, Mohammed enjoys skiing, and in summer, swimming and hiking. Nature has taught him to slow down, enjoy the moment, and not rush. One of his most memorable experiences was seeing the Northern Lights.

“I could hardly believe my eyes — it was like magic.”

Mohammed advises newcomers to Finland to be open-minded and to actively seek opportunities instead of waiting for them to appear. He also encourages participation in student activities.

“I’m happy that I moved here. Finland — and especially Kuopio — offers peace, quality of life, and opportunities for growth, not just professionally but personally as well,” Mohammed says.

Diversity as a strength

Noor and Mohammed believe that small but concrete steps are key to achieving lasting impact. Even though, for example, unemployment won’t change overnight, ongoing dialogue and cooperation with the city lay the foundation for improvement.
Mohammed’s own experience with job-hunting reflects broader challenges. He feels that employers need more awareness of international students and their skills.

“The lack of job opportunities is a major challenge, even though students are often highly educated. We are trying to make a difference by organizing various projects and events,” Mohammed explains.

The Kuopio International Student Council aims to find innovative solutions to these challenges.

“The goal is to create long-term cooperation between international students and the city. Cultural diversity can make Kuopio a model for other cities in the global arena. It’s not just about integration — it’s about belonging,” Mohammed concludes.

Read more in the Kuopio International Student Council Facebook group

Registration form available [here]

Text: Minna Akiola

Portraits: Noor e Sehar Butt and Mohammed Salem Ba Shoaib