Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 2019-2020
At DCU, we are continuing on our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) journey, with new initiatives and achievements.
In September 2020, the University received the Athena SWAN Bronze Award for the second time, in recognition of its commitment to advancing gender equality in higher education and creating cultural change within the University. Among the positive changes that have occurred in the previous 5 years were an increase of 20% (from 27% to 47%) in female representation at Head of School level within the University. Meanwhile, the percentage of females at Professor level grew by 16% to 52%.
DCU is the first university in Ireland to recognise the JAM Card. JAM stands for “Just a Minute”, and producing the card is an effective way for people with a learning difficulty, autism or hidden disability to indicate that they need more time when interacting in shops, public transport or other settings. DCU was also Ireland’s first University of Sanctuary, and remains committed to supporting people seeking international protection. Alongside a system of scholarships and supports provided by DCU, research at the University is having a positive impact. A virtual learning platform developed by researchers at DCU’s Further Education and Training Research Centre has been repurposed to help refugees and those in Direct Provision to learn English. The project was established in cooperation with the housing charity Respond.