Niranjan Sapkota, Junior Assistant Professor of Accounting and Finance at the University of Vaasa, is encouraging international students and immigrants in Finland to learn Finnish, calling language skills “the key to integration.”
Originally from Nepal, Sapkota moved to Finland in 2012 for his master’s studies at the University of Oulu. Initially, he saw no need to learn Finnish, relying on English for daily life. However, everyday experiences — such as feeling excluded during Finnish-only meetings or struggling with simple interactions like grocery shopping — made him rethink his approach.
A pivotal moment came at a seminar where Sapkota introduced himself in English to a Finnish-speaking audience. “I regretted not greeting them in Finnish. Even a small effort could have made a big difference in connecting with the audience,” he said.
Since then, Sapkota has completed Finnish language courses at the University of Vaasa and practices daily, often with help from his children, whom he calls his “best teachers.” His motivation also comes from wanting to understand his children better, as they quickly pick up Finnish in school. “It hurts deeply when you don’t understand your own kids,” he admitted.
Sapkota’s next goal is to deliver an entire presentation in Finnish. His advice to others is clear: even basic language skills can improve social connections, workplace relationships, and daily life. “Be brave and don’t be afraid of mistakes. People won’t judge you; they will encourage you,” he said.
Source: University of Vaasa
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