Priit Reiska says that academic freedom in Estonian universities is in very good shape. He mentions that Tallinn University has previously been modest about its teacher training. However, the desire to become a teacher has grown among young people.
Reiska states that Tallinn University is Estonia’s best teacher trainer. However, this has not been emphasized enough in the past. The university was founded 21 years ago by various stakeholders, including a vocational college, a private college, and a library.
Teacher training is one of the university’s most important tasks. There is a significant shortage of science teachers. For example, in one school, a 70-year-old physics teacher was the younger of two teachers. According to the National Audit Office, many teachers do not meet qualification requirements.
Nevertheless, it is encouraging that there are more people wanting to become science teachers. Four years ago, there were seven, now there are 27. However, this is not enough to train qualified teachers. For this, micro-degrees are offered.
Reiska does not agree that the university should focus solely on teacher training. It also has other important tasks, such as unique fields of study not taught elsewhere.
The Ministry of Education and Tallinn University are in dispute over the training of lawyers. The university wants to increase teacher training, but the ministry is not providing additional funding. Reiska hopes that it won’t come to a lawsuit.
Reiska reflects on the future of universities. He believes that merging universities would not be beneficial at the moment. Each university has its own uniqueness. Cooperation is important, especially in teacher training.
Students often have to work while studying, which can extend their study period. Reiska understands this, as life is more expensive than before. However, he wishes students could focus more on their studies.
Reiska also talks about academic freedom. He believes it is very strong in Estonian universities. In the West, there can be problems when people with similar views gather in one place. In Estonia, there are diverse universities, which is important.
Finally, Reiska says universities should collaborate more with employers. Society needs educated people. Higher education is an investment in the future.