New MMTC Project STAY: Understanding and Supporting Students’ Pathways into Jönköping’s Working Life

MMTC is pleased to announce the launch of Project STAY, led by Professor Leona Achtenhagen. The project examines how Jönköping can strengthen its attractiveness for students to remain in the region after graduation.

Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Region Jönköping County, the project focuses on international students’ experiences at Jönköping University, identifying both opportunities and obstacles to integration into working and everyday life. Areas such as employment opportunities, housing, transport, and cultural inclusion are in focus.

By generating new knowledge about the factors that influence students’ decisions to stay or leave, Project STAY will provide valuable insights for universities, employers, and regional policymakers. The aim is to create stronger links between education and working life, thereby contributing to skills supply, sustainable growth, and innovation in line with Regions Jönköping's goals and Agenda 2030.

Partners and reference groups include JU faculties, the Jönköping Student Union, Science Park Jönköping, JU Enterprise, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jönköping County.

“By better understanding what helps and hinders international students in building their futures here, we can work together to make Jönköping an even more attractive place to live, study, and work,” says MMTC Director and project leader Leona Achtenhagen.