Romako for Higher Education

Strengthening the support, guidance competence, and visibility of Roma students' educational paths and employment.

Romako Towards Higher Education Project (1 March 2025 – 31 August 2027)

Romako Towards Higher Education?is a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting access to higher education for individuals with a Roma background and supporting their educational pathways. The project is led by Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak), with Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK) as a partner.

The Roma are among the most marginalized minorities in Europe, and in Finland, they also face challenges in their educational and career paths. In recent years, interest in higher education has grown within the Roma community, but information about application routes and different fields of study is needed. Additionally, there is a need to strengthen study skills and provide individual support, especially at the beginning of studies.

This project addresses these needs by increasing awareness of higher education among Roma individuals, enhancing the competence of staff in higher education institutions and schools, and developing models for guidance and support. The goal is also to broaden the range of study fields pursued by Roma students and improve their opportunities to find internships.

The Romako project supports collaboration between higher education institutions and the Roma work sector, produces educational materials, and builds employer networks that promote the employment of Roma students. In the long term, the project aims to strengthen the position of Roma in education and working life and increase their visibility as part of the higher education community.