Comparative Analysis of the Governance and Organisation of the Academic Studies of Estonian Language and Culture Abroad (EKKAV) Programme

Background

The Academic Studies of Estonian Language and Culture Abroad (EKKAV) is a state programme that supports the continuous teaching of the Estonian language and culture at universities outside Estonia, along with related support activities. The programme aims to provide high-quality, modern and sustainable education at internationally recognised higher education institutions and memory institutions important to Estonia. The programme’s results framework envisages growth in both the number of learners and the volume of courses: by 2027, the target is 1,500 learners, more than 30 higher education institutions included in the network, over 200 supported courses, and more than 35 scholarship holders arriving in Estonia annually.

Objective

The objective of the analysis is to map and compare the operational and governance model of the EKKAV programme (2018–2027) with similar programmes in other small countries, focusing in particular on the structure of strategic governance and the distribution of roles and responsibilities between the programme funder, the governing body and the implementing organisation. The aim is to obtain an overview of practical governance practices and, based on this, to formulate clear recommendations and directions for improving the management and organisation of the EKKAV programme.

Methodolgy

The study uses qualitative methods, including document analysis and semi-structured individual interviews. Methodological triangulation increases the reliability of the analysis by enabling a comparison between the organisational and governance logic described in the documents and the solutions implemented in practice.

Benefits

The study focused on the international comparison of the EKKAV programme’s governance and operational model and on mapping good management practices. As a result, recommendations were developed to enhance the transparency of programme governance, reduce case‑by‑case decision‑making, strengthen cooperation with partner universities, and ensure the cost‑effective interplay of programme measures.

Project Client: Education and Youth Board
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 11/2025–01/2026

Spatial Feasibility and Economic Impact Analysis of High-Performance Computing (HPC) Data Centres

Background

Estonia aims to develop high-performance computing (HPC), data centre, and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in order to ensure digital sovereignty, support the green transition, and enhance international competitiveness. The planning of such infrastructure requires a comprehensive understanding of potential locations and the factors affecting their suitability, including energy supply and network connectivity, cooling and water supply, environmental and spatial planning conditions, and logistical accessibility.

Objective

The objective of the study was to prepare a management-level overview of the preconditions for the development of HPC, data centre, and AI infrastructure in Estonia, including a strategic location and infrastructure analysis as well as an indicative assessment of economic impact.

Methodolgy

The spatial analysis applied the pairwise comparison method. The weights of the criteria were determined based on the principles of pairwise comparison, applying the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) framework.

The economic impact assessment was conducted as a desk-based study, drawing on existing sources such as statistical data, academic literature, previous studies, policy documents, and international strategies. The main components of the analysis included preparatory activities, comparative analysis, and Estonia-specific scenarios.

Benefits

The report provides an overview of the spatial suitability of large-scale computing capacity and data processing infrastructure planned in Estonia, covering both data centres and high-performance computing solutions. The analysis serves as a basis for further detailed studies and informed planning decisions.

 

Project Client: Ministry of Justice and Digital Affairs Project Implementer: Skepast&Puhkim OÜ ja LevelLab Study Duration: 11/2025–01/2026

Analysis of the Education Network in Viru-Nigula Municipality

Background

Viru-Nigula Municipality needed input to prepare its education strategy for the years 2025–2029. 

Objective

The objective of the analysis was to provide an overview of the current state of the education network and institutions, and to offer proposals and solutions for potential changes and reorganisations, considering educational policy trends and agreements, long-term service demand forecasts (including demographic projections), and the municipality’s financial capacity. 

Methodology

The analysis was carried out through a document review based on materials provided by the client and information available from public sources. In addition, site visits were conducted to the municipality’s educational institutions, and focus group interviews were held with school leaders and municipal specialists. 

Benefits

Following the analysis, it is possible to assess which development or restructuring measures are needed in educational institutions from the perspective of the education network as a whole, taking into account accessibility, quality, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. 

Project contracting institution: Viru-Nigula Municipality
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 02/2024 – 06/2024

Analysis of the implementation of the Estonian Qualifications Framework

Background

The level descriptions of the Estonian Qualifications Framework (EstQF) are the basis for the structure of general, vocational and higher education curricula, the preparation of vocational standards and the consideration of previous studies and work experience. In recent years, it has become apparent that the current level descriptions are sometimes too general and do not sufficiently support curriculum development or the coherence of the vocational system. This makes it difficult for learners to move between educational levels, to grant a vocational qualification and to understand qualifications.

Objective

The aim of the study is to analyse the current implementation of the EstQF, assess its alignment with the actual needs of the education system, and develop updated and more applicable level descriptors.

Methodology

.The study employs qualitative methods: document analysis, comparison of international practices, and validation seminars. Document analysis helps to map the role and applicability of the EstQF level descriptors within the Estonian education and qualification system. The international comparison provides insights into how countries with similar education systems have structured and implemented their qualification frameworks, highlighting potentially transferable good practices. The purpose of the validation seminars is to evaluate the results of the analysis and support the development of substantively effective and realistic proposals for improvement.

Benefits

The result is substantively justified proposals that support the development of the EstQF into a coherent, user-friendly and internationally understandable framework that contributes to the growth of the competitiveness of the Estonian workforce and the better integration of education and the labor market.

Project Client: Ministry of Education and Research
Project Implementer: LevelLab
Study Duration: 05/25-09/25

Developing Feedback Surveys for the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences

Background

The Estonian Academy of Security Sciences needs to update its principles and procedures for collecting and considering feedback; the current process does not support the goal of improving the quality of education as desired. There are too many feedback surveys, they are conducted in different environments, and the analysis of the results is not consistent or evidence-based.

Objective

The goal is to develop a comprehensive feedback system and update the feedback surveys aimed at learners. The results of the work serve as the basis for the development and implementation of a new feedback collection and evaluation procedure for the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences.

Methodology

To develop the solution, a business analysis will be conducted, including interviews. Subsequently, prototypes of questionnaires will be developed, followed by the methodology for surveys, including a process description, research calendar, analysis methodology, technical implementation of data processing, and visualization solution.

Benefits

The developed solution supports the goal of improving the quality of education, being part of a broader internal and external assessment system. It will be web-based (secure and user-friendly), allowing clear visualization of results and their dissemination to different target groups. Participation in surveys will be limited to students of the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences.

Project contracting institution: Estonian Academy of Security Sciences
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 12/2023 ‍– 03/2024

The processing tool for admission statistics at the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences

Background

The Estonian Academy of Security Sciences wanted to implement an automated tool for processing admission statistics queries in the SAIS information system, which simplifies the processing of admission statistics, presenting them as compact data tables and visualizations.

Objective

The aim of the proposed solution was to create an Excel workbook, which takes as input structured data tables (for example, .csv extracts from the SAIS admission information system) or PowerQuery data queries from SAIS.

Methodology

The structure and functionality of the solution were designed during the requirements gathering process, which involved document analysis and interviews with representatives from the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences. During the interviews, the structure of the output worksheets, the formatting of tables, charts, and diagrams, as well as other necessary information, were clarified.

Benefits

The tool helps reduce the time spent on compiling and analyzing admission statistics at the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences, thereby ensuring a faster and more efficient process.

Project contracting institution: Estonian Academy of Security Sciences
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 10/2023 ‍– 12/2023

Analysis of the Process of Reorganization of Ministries

Background

The coalition agreement signed in April 2023 carried out extensive reorganization of ministries, affecting a total of five ministries and their subordinate institutions. The aim was to better align the thematic areas of ministries with government priorities and to increase coherence between different policy domains. While the changes have not yet come into effect from the perspective of the state budget, most of the practical steps have been taken. As a result of the process, it has become clear that implementing changes in some areas was more challenging. Therefore, it is important to analyze the lessons learned from this process and how to implement such large-scale changes more efficiently in the future while emphasizing openness, transparency, and knowledge-based decision-making.

Objective

The aim of the study was to analyze the process of reorganization of ministries that took place in 2023 and to highlight its lessons learned.

Methodology

During the study, individual interviews, focus group interviews, and a questionnaire survey were conducted. Interviews   were conducted with the chancellors and deputy chancellors of related ministries, as well as with chancellors and deputy chancellors who were required to leave their positions as a result of the reorganization. Also with the heads of agencies within the ministries’ areas of governance. Seven focus group interviews were conducted, addressing topics according to the affected areas of reorganization, and one focus group interview was conducted with various government agencies and departments that centrally supported the reorganization process. The aim of the survey was to identify the challenges related to the reorganization, officials’ opinions on opportunities to improve the process and prevent future obstacles, and to explore the impact of the reorganization on daily operations, inter-ministerial cooperation, and resulting changes.

Benefits

The study helped identify the obstacles and success stories in implementing the reorganization, and proposals will be made for conducting similar processes in the future. In addition, it was determined what prerequisites need to be established, developed, and ensured in government agencies and their subordinate institutions to ensure that such processes are efficient, smooth, and as trouble-free as possible for all stakeholders.

Project contracting institution: Government Office
Project implementer: LevelLab and Baltic Research Institute
Duration: 10/2023 ‍–02/2024

Prevention program “Puhas Tulevik” effectiveness study

Background

Since 2019, the number of offenses committed by minors in Estonia has been on a declining trend, but the number of drug-related crimes has increased. In order to more effectively change the behavior of minors, a multifaceted approach has been implemented, preferring means of influence over punishments and implementing social programs. Among these is the prevention program “Puhas Tulevik” aimed at reducing drug use and promoting the social and psychological well-being of young people. However, considering the complexity of prevention work and the inadequacy or harmfulness of several measures, it is important to analyze the causes of delinquency, develop and implement evidence-based measures to prevent drug use among youth, and assess the impact and evidence-based nature of the measures already in place.

Objective

The aim of the study is to analyze the evidence-based nature and the current implementation of the prevention program “Puhas Tulevik”, including based on a comparative mapping of local municipalities.

Methodology

For evaluating the effectiveness of the prevention program “Puhas Tulevik,” various methods are employed. Document analysis is used to gather preliminary information and define the theoretical framework.  A survey will be conducted among child protection specialists and local police officers in municipalities implementing the prevention program to map activities and obtain their assessment among program implementers. An analysis of program completers and dropouts will also be conducted. Semi-structured in-depth interviews will be conducted with representatives from four target groups: participants in the prevention program, their parents, local police officers, and municipality officials. The aim is to obtain detailed input to assess the effectiveness of the program  and identify various factors that influence its effectiveness. In the nationwide mapping of the program, a logic intervention analysis is conducted in different municipalities. Additionally, a validation seminar is conducted to present the research findings, gather initial feedback, and validate the conclusions and recommendations of the study.

Benefits

During the study, the aim is to assess whether the activities implemented within the program support the achievement of objectives in the best possible way, and to identify the main challenges in implementing the program. As a result of the study, practical recommendations for further development of the program will be presented, along with suggestions for evaluating the effectiveness of the program in the future.  

Project ordering institution: Police and Border Guard Board
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration: 11/2023 ‍–09/2024

The startup ecosystem of Ida-Viru: looking back and forward

Background

Startup Estonia implemented a three-year pilot program in Ida-Viru County aimed at creating a favorable environment for the development of startups in the region. The program involved 23 organizations and attracted nearly 21,000 participants. Significant interest and the registration of 14 new startups indicate the region’s potential. The follow-up project for the years 2022-2025 focuses on sustaining the entrepreneurial environment in Ida-Virumaa, aiming to create more new startups and promote collaboration with the creative industries sector.

Objective

The aim of the study is to gather necessary input regarding the current state and challenges of the Ida-Viru startup ecosystem, which could be used for planning future ecosystem development activities. Evaluation of the impact and quality of the project activities since 2019.

Methodology

The work will involve using multiple data collection and analysis methods. Document analysis will help assess the impact and quality of the previous pilot project, providing input for evaluating the current status and future development opportunities of the Ida-Viru startup ecosystem. Surveys will assess the awareness and readiness of Ida-Viru residents for entrepreneurship, and analyze the views of participants in events organized by startup support organizations on the Ida-Viru startup ecosystem. Focus group interviews will be conducted with providers of all types of services (such as incubators, accelerators, coworking spaces, and event/conference organizers) as well as representatives of startups operating in various sectors.

Benefits

The results of the study will help to understand the current situation and challenges in the Ida-Viru startup ecosystem and provide input for planning and improving future development activities and projects.

Project contracting authority: Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications
Project implementer: LevelLab
Duration:10/2023 ‍– 03/2024

Model for Evaluating the Impact of Cultural and Sporting Events

Background

Cultural and sports events have diverse impacts, including economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects. These events increase Estonia’s attractiveness in the eyes of both domestic and international tourists, promote local culture and sports life, and help enhance Estonia’s reputation worldwide. Various models have been developed to assess the socio-economic impact of events, but they often lack a social dimension. Additionally, the impact of media visibility associated with events on the image of tourist destinations is inadequately evaluated, and the application of these methodologies for events held in larger cities is complex.

Objective

The aim of the study is to develop a methodology (tool) for assessing the socio-economic impact, including the influence on Estonia as a tourist destination, of internationally appealing cultural and sports events held in Estonia. This includes assessing the image of Estonia as a tourist destination, and allowing for future reassessments. In addition, the methodology will be piloted based on 20 events, and proposals for the implementation of the methodology will be developed.

Methodology

LevelLab will pilot the model at 20 events, where three target groups will be surveyed: foreign and domestic tourists, the local community in the areas where the events take place, and businesses. In addition, personal interviews will be conducted with organizations organizing the events and representatives of local governments in the event locations, focus group interviews will be held, and secondary quantitative data will be analyzed.

Benefits

A decision-making tool  for cultural management will be developed to facilitate the planning of individual events. In addition, the tool can be used to enhance Estonia’s positioning and reputation as a tourist destination.

Project ordering institution: Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications
Project implementers: LevelLab and Roheline Rada
Duration: 08/2023-12/2024