South East Technological University is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Athena Swan Ireland Bronze Institutional Award, recognising the University’s commitment to advancing gender equality and fostering an inclusive academic and research environment.
The Athena Swan Ireland Charter, established to promote gender equality in higher education and research institutions, is a globally respected framework that supports the development of policies and practices ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion. It is run by Advance HE, which has worked in partnership with the sector for 10 years, supported by the Higher Education Authority.
Dedication
SETU’s achievement of the Bronze Award is a testament to the University’s dedication to embedding these principles within its culture, policies, and strategic vision, and follows on from SETU’s European Inclusive Gender Equality Champions Award in 2023.
Pride
It reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all staff and students can thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of gender or background.
Prof. Veronica Campbell President, SETU
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, expressed immense pride in this recognition, stating: “Receiving the Athena Swan Ireland Bronze Institutional Award is a significant milestone for SETU. It reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all staff and students can thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of gender or background. This achievement is the result of collective effort of many across the University, and I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success.”
The award acknowledges SETU’s comprehensive Gender Equality Action Plan, which includes initiatives to enhance diversity in leadership roles, support career progression for underrepresented groups, and cultivate an inclusive and supportive institutional culture.
Validation of work
Dr Allison Kenneally, Vice President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at SETU added: “This award is a strong validation of the work we have been doing to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of university life. However, this is just the beginning. We remain committed to continuously striving towards true equality and inclusion for all, and to progressing towards silver accreditation in the future.”
Highlighting commitment
Sarah Fink, Head of Athena Swan Ireland, said, “This Bronze Athena Swan award highlights the fantastic commitment of SETU in bringing about change through impactful and sustainable gender equality initiatives in higher education across Ireland. Congratulations to all those who work so hard to achieve and sustain this recognition.”
Jennie Rothwell, Centre of Excellence for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Higher Education Authority, said, “Action plans developed through the Athena Swan Ireland Charter enable higher education institutions and departments to take an evidence-based approach to addressing gender equality challenges. Congratulations to SETU in taking this step forward to advance gender equality for all staff and students.”
SETU will continue to drive forward its gender equality initiatives, ensuring sustained progress in fostering a more equal, diverse and inclusive university community.