Awards for cross-cutting themes were presented at the Taitaja2026 event
In the Taitaja competition, the skill categories that best take the following themes into account are awarded annually: sustainable development, entrepreneurship, and occupational wellbeing and safety.
These themes are an essential part of the planning and implementation of the skill categories and competition tasks, as required by section 5.6 of the Taitaja rules. The selection of award recipients was carried out by experts from different fields. Each theme had its own jury, which selected the most deserving skill category.
Sustainable development award: Restaurant and Catering Service
Evaluators Tiina Taipale from Sykli and Sini Kettunen from Keuda, skill category leads Paula Ahola from Keuda and Eero Saanakorpi from Spesia. Photo Katja Katajamäki, Skills Finland
The sustainable development award was given to the TaitajaPLUS skill category Restaurant and Catering Service. According to the jury, the skill category promoted sustainability by raising awareness of the planetary diet and demonstrated how young professionals can act as builders of a sustainable future. Responsibility was evident in many ways, such as avoiding waste, using circular economy solutions, making careful material choices, ensuring energy efficiency, and maintaining a safe competition environment. The skill category received special praise for sharing its sustainability expertise with other skill categories.
Occupational safety and wellbeing award: Bakery and
Confectionery
Evaluators Eeva Koskela from LähiTapiola and Mika Pönkä from Keuda, skill category leads Anne Lindqvist and Jonna Suhonen. Photo Katja Katajamäki, Skills Finland
The Bakery and Confectionery skill category was awarded for its attention to occupational wellbeing and safety. According to the jury, the skill category invested excellently in safety through careful planning and comprehensive orientation. Wellbeing was strengthened both in the competition and in studies. An encouraging atmosphere and positive interaction supported success, learning, and wellbeing.
Entrepreneurship award: Electrical Installations
Evaluators Pauliina Okkonen from Keuda and Päivi Ojala from Suomen Yrittäjät, skill category leads Jukka Väyrynen and Vesa Myllys from Keuda. Photo Katja Katajamäki, Skills Finland
The Electrical Installations skill category received the entrepreneurship award. According to the jury, it was particularly commendable that the skill category boldly renewed its tasks based on entrepreneurship and working life skills. Students worked in the competition using a contract model by planning and taking responsibility for their own work, which develops an entrepreneurial mindset and business competence. Cooperation with working life played a central role in the tasks. The competition emphasized efficient and high quality work that supports customer orders and revenue.
Congratulations!