Change from physical to electronic diplomas – What does it entail?

About two weeks ago Åbo Akademi University declared their intention to make the change from physical diplomas to electronic diplomas for graduates. Since the paper diploma and its accompanied red folder have a high cultural and traditional value, many students have been alarmed by the news. The Student Union has been in contact with the university throughout the year to discuss this change and argued for the physical diploma to remain. As the chair of the board, I have gathered some of the main points from these discussions and will present these in the text below. I also want to explain the Student Union’s opinions on this issue. 

First, regarding the difference between the diploma and its folder; the diploma is an examination document that is legally binding and shows examination from the program, and grades from each course. The folder is handed out during the graduation ceremony, with the diploma in it. 

Åbo Akademi University is the last university in Finland which still has the physical paper diploma. Removing this extra work from the university’s personnel would ease their labor and give them time to focus on other important tasks.  

The university could use an electronic database as long term storage for the original copies. The signing process of the diploma would be significantly faster. It is also more convenient to apply for work when the diploma is given in an electronic format. To ensure that a diploma is not a copy, it would be easier and faster to go through an electronic database.  

To be valid, the current diploma must be made of a special paper with a sigil, water stamp, and signed by hand. These diplomas are very beautiful, but the making of them requires a lot of work. I myself value the old diplomas but can see the benefit in electronic diplomas. Moving the juridically binding document to an electronic database is a good direction. This creates the opportunity to get electronic copies of the diploma, which students have been asking for. 

So, what is the future of the physical diploma? We have many students who prefer a physical document over an electronic version. The Student Union has proposed that when asked, students would be able to get a physical diploma for free. The university has taken this wish into account and will give out physical copies of the diploma at graduation ceremonies. What will the diploma look like? The official diploma will be the digital and a physical copy will also be given. The Student Union wishes that a copy with the sigil and water stamp would still be available.  

Back to the folder. The university has for a long time used a red folder with golden tassels and the ÅA logo in silver. This folder is beautiful especially when compared to the paper folders other universities use. We want to keep it for its traditional importance. The Student Union will lobby for keeping the folder for graduation ceremonies. 

Jonne Kunnas

Chair of the Board