University of Oulu Rector Arto Maaninen resigns, apologizes amid investigation findings of sexual harassment and vulgar language at staff event

Arto Maaninen has resigned from his position as Rector of the University of Oulu, effective immediately, following a decision by the university board. The resignation comes after an ongoing review of confidence in Maaninen due to allegations of alcohol use, inappropriate behavior, and findings of sexual harassment and vulgar language at a university staff event. In a statement on his LinkedIn account, Maaninen apologized for his conduct, acknowledging that his "judgment has failed" and that he had "behaved improperly." He expressed regret for the "emotions it has caused" and the distress resulting from the situation, emphasizing that a rector must uphold the institution’s values and bear responsibility for their actions (Ilta-Sanomat).