TAKUtuki prize 2026 has been awarded

TAKtuki prize has been awarded to two theses done by TAKU’s student members. Selection criteria included the  significance of the thesis subject for the fields of arts, culture and events.

A total of 24 students graduating during the 2025–2026 academic year applied for the TAKUtuki prize. Applicants represented a wide range of universities across Finland and even internationally: 13 were working on master’s theses in universities, 10 on bachelor’s theses from universities of applied sciences, and one on a thesis for a master's degree from a university of applied sciences. The applicants’ academic backgrounds reflected a broad spectrum of TAKU-related degree programs, including cultural production, literary studies, theatre studies, fine arts, art education and various disciplines within arts and cultural studies. 

This year, the jury noted a remarkable number of theses addressing especially themes related to ecology and social sustainability. The evaluation emphasized the freshness of perspectives, topical relevance and societal value of the selected works. The final choices were made anonymously.

The jury extends its thanks for all the excellent applications and warmly congratulates all graduating TAKU student members! 

The panel of experts consisting of TAKU’s board members, decided to award (1,000 € each) following TAKU members:

Filip Babic

“Digitalization and Audience Engagement in Opera: Access, Diversity, and Loyalty”.

Master of Arts, Arts Management, Society and Creative Entrepreneurship, Sibelius Academy, The University of the Arts Helsinki 2026. 

Julia Rapo

“Lasten unelmien kaupunki: Lapsinäkökulmainen ja taideperustainen tutkimus Rovaniemen kaupunkisuunnittelusta”.

Master of Arts, Arts Education, University of Lapland 2025. Read the thesis >>

Best congratulations to Filip and Julia! 

Read more about TAKUtuki prize and get to know the awarded projects from previous years.