Agenda Profile: Liina Kersna
The Minister of Education and Research's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"
2025-05-15
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly focused on supporting the objectives of the "Estonia 2035" education strategy, underscoring the necessity of increasing the proportion of lifelong learning and higher education. Particular emphasis is placed on proactively investing in artificial intelligence (AI) topics and doctoral studies, viewing this as the key to the country's economic and social success. The position is clearly policy- and value-driven, highlighting the importance of maintaining initiative and taking on a pioneering role.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates robust expertise in education policy, particularly concerning the integration of artificial intelligence, lifelong learning, and the advancement of higher education. The presentation utilizes extensive data and statistics (OECD indicators, doctoral degree figures, 7:1 return on investment) and references specific programs (TI-Hüpe) and the proposals of experts (Jaak Vilo). Furthermore, special emphasis is placed on the significance of self-regulated learning and pedagogical skills in the AI era.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is analytical, optimistic, and proactive, emphasizing Estonia's capacity to be flexible and a pioneer. The speaker employs strong logical arguments and statistical comparisons with other nations to justify significant investments in education. The tone is formal and forward-looking, stressing that the wisest nations invest before others even grasp the necessity.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the Riigikogu (Parliamentary) session, submitting a detailed question concerning the effects of transitioning adult education to a fee-based system, and delivering a comprehensive report on the education strategy. The request for an extension demonstrates a commitment to thoroughly addressing the subject matter. Information regarding broader activity patterns (such as regular public appearances or travel) is unavailable.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no direct opposition. The speaker raises a question regarding the impact analysis of the decision to introduce fees for recurrent adult education, which indicates concern about the policy's consequences, but does not directly criticize political opponents.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker emphasizes collaboration, citing the successful agreement reached on increasing doctoral study positions ("Authority and academia have worked together"). Furthermore, support is given to the TI-Hüppe program, launched under the President's leadership, and the need for cooperation among researchers, entrepreneurs, and teachers is highlighted.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly on the national level (Estonian Education Sector Development Plan) and international comparisons (OECD, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Germany) concerning the proportion of higher education and doctoral degrees. There are no specific regional or local interests.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives strongly advocate for investments in human capital, particularly in higher education and doctoral programs. It is stressed that investments in education yield significant returns for the economy (at least seven euros back for every euro invested) and are essential for transitioning the economy toward higher added value, supported by artificial intelligence. The short-term expense associated with expanding doctoral studies is deemed beneficial in the long run.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Among social issues, the focus is placed on education as the foundation for societal cohesion and well-being. Obtaining higher education is viewed as a means of ensuring a smarter society, better health, and greater wealth, which in turn supports those in need and guarantees quality education and solidarity-based healthcare. The need to expand opportunities for acquiring higher education, regardless of a young person's background, is also emphasized.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus centers on the implementation of the educational objectives outlined in the state's long-term development strategy, "Eesti 2035." Among the priorities is increasing the number of doctoral study places to 500, with particular emphasis on the subject of artificial intelligence. Furthermore, the impact analysis concerning the introduction of fees for recurrent adult education is also a key focus area.
3 Speeches Analyzed