This autumn, The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region offers around 1,200 courses, most of which begin in early September. Some courses run throughout the academic year, while others last for a single term or even just one day. The selection also includes free public lectures.
Over 14,800 students have already registered for the autumn term. Pottery courses are especially popular, with more than 230 people on the waiting list. In the arts, singing courses and improvisational theatre also attract interest. Among handicrafts, sewing with jersey fabrics, woodworking, and jewelry-making are particularly popular, with waiting lists forming for these as well.
In district-based Pilates classes in Linnainmaa and Annala, over 30 people are waiting for each group – equal to the number of participants the space can accommodate. Ballet and tai chi are also in high demand based on current waiting lists.
– The most popular courses always reflect current trends and the state of society, but there are also enduring favorites. People long for hands-on activities and relaxation, and they’re increasingly willing to challenge themselves and their skills, says Maija-Liisa Gröhn, Principal of the Adult Education Centre.
The "Basics of Partner Dancing for Couples" course has 34 people on the waiting list – significantly more than in previous years. In contrast, among academic subjects, aside from artificial intelligence, the course with the most people on standby is the Finnish Divorce Seminar, with seven people waiting.
– In difficult times, people seek closeness and genuine togetherness. Fortunately, people are more willing to seek support for challenging life situations. Peer sharing is known to help, comfort, and empower – especially in exceptional circumstances, Gröhn notes.
In language studies, Finnish courses are the most popular, with 50 people on the waiting list. The surprise of the season is the advanced Swedish course Snackklubben (B2–C1 level), which filled up quickly and also has students waiting.
– One in ten Tampere residents has a foreign mother tongue, which clearly contributes to the popularity of Finnish courses. Nordic languages are gaining interest, and many want to return to Swedish studies as adults. The Adult Education Centre also offers beginner-level Norwegian, Gröhn adds.
