Reino Ala-Kulju

Reino Ala-Kulju (25 April 1898 – 5 August 1983) was a Finnish Lutheran clergyman, secondary school teacher and politician, born in Kuortane.

He participated in the Finnish Civil War in the ranks of the Whites and was involved in the battles of Vilppula, Ruovesi, Länkipohja and Orivesi.

[citation needed] Ala-Kulju’s academic journey commenced with his graduation from Lapua in 1918, a year marked by his enrollment at the University of Helsinki.

[citation needed] In addition to his educational roles, Ala-Kulju was ordained again in 1929 and served with distinction as a military chaplain during the Second World War.

His service extended through the Continuation War, where he held the position of enlightenment officer for the tribal warrior brigade and fulfilled pastoral duties in Eastern Karelia.

In 1964, he participated in a parliamentary inquiry initiated by Margit Borg-Sundman regarding Hannu Salama’s controversial novel “Midsummer Dances.” Ala-Kulju was a staunch advocate for educational reform, promoting specialization and the matriculation examination.

From 1964 to 1967, Ala-Kulju held a position on the supervisory board of Yleisradio, contributing to the oversight of Finland’s national public broadcasting company.