Keynote seminar at Tampere Hall (10.00-12.00)

Tampere University will host its first-ever Homecoming Day in November, bringing together alumni from across the University and its predecessor institutions. The day will begin with a keynote seminar at Tampere Hall, featuring interesting presentations on technology, health and society.

The keynote seminar will begin with an opening speech by president Keijo Hämäläinen. After Henna Virkkunen’s keynote speech, we will hear two engaging panel discussions on the themes of Digital power and geopolitics, and Thriving Finland. The seminar will be hosted by Vilma Hartikainen and Vincent Kinnunen.

Meet the speakers

The programme will be conducted in Finnish. Simultaneous interpretation into English will be available for participants who select English as their preferred language when registering for Homecoming Day.

Executive Vice-President of the European Commission

Henna Virkkunen serves as Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Technological Sovereignty, Security and Democracy.

Her responsibilities include addressing the complex security challenges facing the EU, strengthening both external borders and internal security, and safeguarding freedoms, justice and democratic values across the EU.

Henna Virkkunen has blonde hair and she is dressed in a dark blue blazer and a black turtle neck. She smiles at the camera.

Panel discussions

Digital power and geopolitics

How is technology reshaping global power relations? This panel brings together experts to explore the impact of data governance, the platform economy and artificial intelligence on international politics and economics. The experts will also discuss the opportunities and challenges these developments present for Finland.

Moderator: Thomas Olsson, Professor of Human-Centred Design at Tampere University.

Thriving Finland

How can Finland promote the well-being of its population and ensure national success in our rapidly changing world? A panel of experts will examine the decisions that are necessary to ensure Finland remains a competitive, equal and vibrant society.

Moderator: Elina Kestilä-Kekkonen, Professor and Head of the Politics Unit at Tampere University