Over two days in the late summer, over 10,000 people attended the Ollikkala Agricultural Fair 2025, held at Kpedu’s campus in Kannus vocational school and organised by the Central Ostrobothnia Agricultural Exhibition Association.
Engaging with over 200 exhibition stands, live demonstrations, machinery, animals, digital simulators, and an exciting children’s area, the participants could explore all facets of the natural resources sector.
Real-life encounters and experiences
Aiming to enhance the attractiveness of the natural resources sector and highlight its many opportunities for young people, the organisers made a point of actively including children and youth at the event – including with a dedicated children’s area.
Industry representatives explained every aspect of their work, highlighting the sector’s role in food security and national preparedness, but also sustainability and technological development.
Students shared how the event opened new study and work perspectives for them:
“The fair gave a comprehensive picture of what the sector is all about – I found it really useful for planning my own future.”
“It made me feel like there’s a real need for this field, and plenty of job opportunities.”
For teachers, the fair was a great way to spark children’s and young people’s interest in the sector:
“The fair provided an inviting and thorough introduction to careers in agriculture and forestry. Everyone found something fun and educational.”
Technology, experiences, and careers of the future
While the fair showcased traditional farming tasks, it also highlighted how the natural resources sector is evolving, integrating technology, sustainability, and hands-on expertise. With modern technologies, automation, and digital solutions on full display, the younger attendees were particularly drawn to the simulators, robotics, and forestry equipment.
Panel discussions discussed food security and the role of the sector in national preparedness, as well as how educational farms act as platforms for research and innovation, where learning and real-world problem-solving come together.
Children and young people, the sector’s professionals and customers of the future
Children and youth were placed at the heart of the programme. With the support of MTK (Farmer’s Union), hundreds of schoolchildren travelled from far away cities across Finland to take part. The children’s area was packed with activities, from animal encounters and forest games, to pedal tractors and interactive learning stations. The warm, welcoming and engaging atmosphere they experienced has made a lasting, positive impact on their perception of rural life.
A highlight was the visit by popular social media police officer Daniel, who helped create a positive and safe atmosphere. He spoke about the importance of social sustainability in the everyday lives of children and young people, bridging values and visibility with a human touch.
Watch Daniel’s video of the fair on Instagram
He said:
“Children were wonderfully included, and it was great to see their interest in the natural resources sector… The atmosphere was warm and communal – you rarely experience this level of togetherness.”
EVECSA’s innovative way to connect with young people
Alongside the fair, the “Mullirock” concert brought together over 1,000 young people. Part of EVECSA’s Finland CoVE’s innovative approach to raising awareness about rural life and its possibilities, the event combined culture, community, and the natural resources sector in a bold and youthful format.
A renewed attractiveness of the natural resources sector
The event was a resounding success thanks to the collective effort of exhibitors, educators, students, and volunteers. Feedback especially praised the active role and cheerful attitude of students, the seamless work of teachers and instructors, and the friendly professionalism of the staff.
From the perspective of the EVECSA project, the Ollikkala Fair was a clear demonstration of how the natural resources sector can strengthen its attractiveness, showcasing its skills and all it has to offer young people – and therefore attracting present and future skilled workers. Making the impact of the sector tangible to all, the event has played a key role in securing the future of the natural resources sector.
