Democratic Civic Association DSL Study Center is an educational institution for activists that organizes adult education and events within the framework of liberal adult education, both independently and in cooperation with partner organizations. We strengthen democratic skills and provide educational tools for changing the world.
Our activities are based on the principles of peace, internationalism, humanism, democracy, as well as Marxism and socialism, and on the idea of lifelong learning.
We are one of Finland’s eleven study centres, each with its own areas of emphasis. We are a member of the Finnish Study Centres association. The activities of study centres are governed by the Act on Liberal Adult Education.
Support for educational activities
We support personal development by providing financial support for self-organized educational activities and by offering study materials. There are two forms of financial support: support for study events and support for study circles. Any association or group organizing activities that align with our objectives may apply for support, including non-member organizations.
Study events
A study event may take the form of a discussion event, course, seminar, lecture, or other educational activity. It should have an educational and general-interest character. Openness to participation is a key principle, although events may also be designed for a specific target group.
Apply for support for your study event (in Finnish)!
Study circles
A study circle is an independent group that systematically studies or explores a topic of its own choosing. A study circle may take the form of a reading group, organizational development activities, or discussions on current issues. Unlike a study event, a study circle is a longer-term small-group activity rather than a single event.
Apply for support for your study circle (in Finnish)!
DSL education programmes
The DSL Study Centre offers six courses or training programmes of its own. Information about upcoming events is published on our website and social media channels. You can also commission tailored training for your organization or suggest an idea for a course or event: dsl@desili.fi
Explore our training programmes here (in Finnish)!
transform! europe
DSL is a member of the European network transform! europe, which brings together left-wing and Marxist educational and research organizations, think tanks, and institutes, and works in close cooperation with the Party of European Left.
