The academic year 2022/2023 witnessed a substantial rise in the number of students benefiting from the school transport allowance in Finland, totaling over 70,000. Notably, Kymenlaakso saw a three-fold increase in costs as more students opted for this allowance following the discontinuation of free public transport in Kouvola. Similarly, Uusimaa experienced a significant rise in recipients, leading to a doubling of expenses due to the integration of Helsinki Regional Transport services into the school transport allowance system.
Most students utilizing the school transport allowance choose public transportation, with approximately €39 million allocated to cover their trips. Particularly in the HSL area, where public transportation is affordable, there was an upsurge in students applying for reimbursements, even for shorter journeys, as they did not surpass the cost threshold mandated by previous legislation. Additionally, students now report their travel details more diligently, resulting in increased reimbursements for combining various modes of transportation. The number of students receiving reimbursements for using different modes has increased more than tenfold compared to previous periods.
There has been a shift in the mode of transportation, as self-arranged methods like private cars or mopeds constitute a smaller proportion of reimbursements. While approximately €18 million was allocated for self-arranged transportation, it accounted for just over 25% of the total school transport allowance expenses in the 2022/2023 academic year, as the legislation stipulates 30% lower reimbursements for these trips.
Piia Kuusisto, the Head of Benefits at Kela, highlighted the expected increase in school transport costs due to the expansion of compulsory education and free secondary education. She stressed the need for public awareness regarding the allowance's availability for a wider range of journeys. Continuous monitoring and policy adjustments are imperative to align with evolving travel patterns and student needs. Effective management of these costs is crucial to sustain vital support systems for students and families as Finland adapts its education system, and the government's responsiveness to these changes will shape the future of education and student welfare in the country.