SETU has proudly achieved the significant designation of a University of Sanctuary, highlighting its unwavering commitment to fostering values of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across all aspects of university life.
Welcoming communities
The University of Sanctuary initiative, part of the City of Sanctuary movement founded in Sheffield in 2005, recognises institutions that actively welcome sanctuary seekers and build inclusive communities. SETU joins the ranks of other Irish universities—such as Dublin City University, University of Limerick, University College Cork, University College Dublin, University of Galway, Maynooth University, and Trinity College Dublin—that have embraced this designation.
“We are truly honoured and grateful to receive this designation, as it reflects our commitment to fostering a culture that is inclusive and welcoming. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this achievement possible. Moving forward, we will continue our work tirelessly, promoting a culture of inclusion, respect, and belonging, so that everyone has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”
Dr Allison Kenneally, Vice President for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Fostering change through learning and sharing
SETU’s strategic plan, Connecting for Impact 2023-2028, emphasises its dedication to fostering societal change at local, regional, and national levels. The University of Sanctuary designation reflects the SETU community’s commitment to tackling challenges related to racism and exclusion, promoting a culture of understanding, empathy, and respect for students, staff, and the broader community.
“At SETU, we understand that a sense of community is not something that just happens. It needs to be built, fostered, nurtured. Sanctuary at SETU, involves our taking action on a macro level to maintain and promote an inclusive and welcoming culture free from racism on campus, and also on a micro level through the personal touch and offering support when needed”
Dr Sarah Sartori, University of Sanctuary Chair
SETU's designation as a University of Sanctuary symbolises the resilience of the human spirit as shown during designation events across SETU campuses. Sanctuary scholars from the Carlow, Waterford and Wexford campuses shared powerful personal stories, and we are grateful to them for doing so. One scholar, reflecting on surviving a near-death experience, said, “I felt like I was facing death itself but somehow, I survived,” and praised the scholarship for offering a second chance: “This second chance has brought me to Ireland and SETU, where I feel safe and can think about building a future.” Another expressed a lifelong commitment to justice embedded in personal struggles, stating, “I want to work for justice. I have seen injustice all my life.” A third noted how the scholarship has “turned dreams into reality.” These stories highlight the impact of SETU’s Sanctuary scholarships in empowering individuals to overcome challenges and drive meaningful change in society.
As a University of Sanctuary, SETU will follow three guiding principles: learn, embed, and share. By learning, SETU aims to deepen it’s understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers and recognise their resilience. This commitment includes staff training, educational events, and awareness programs designed to highlight what it means to be seeking sanctuary.
SETU will also embed a welcoming culture of safety and inclusion in every corner of campus life, establishing a lasting environment of acceptance and support. Moreover, SETU plans to share its progress and insights with partner universities, local communities, and the media, promoting positive change in wider society through its EDI initiatives.
To learn more about the University of Sanctuary initiative click here.