South East Technological University (SETU) has introduced the University of Sanctuary initiative across its campuses this week declaring its commitment to upholding the values of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across all aspects of university life and starting its journey to becoming one of Irelands universities of sanctuary.
South East Technological University (SETU) has introduced the University of Sanctuary initiative across its campuses this week declaring its commitment to upholding the values of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across all aspects of university life and starting its journey to becoming one of Ireland’s universities of sanctuary.
Universities of Sanctuary is an initiative of the City of Sanctuary movement which began in October 2005 in Sheffield, UK. It celebrates the good practice of universities welcoming sanctuary seekers into their communities and fostering a culture of welcome and inclusion for all.
SETU hopes to join fellow Irish universities, Dublin City University (DCU), University of Limerick (UL), University College Cork (UCC), University College Dublin (UCD), University of Galway, Maynooth University, and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) as a university of sanctuary in Ireland.
The SETU community recognises the vital role that higher education plays in addressing challenges of racism and exclusion on its campuses. As outlined in the university’s strategic plan 2023-2025, Connecting for Impact, SETU recognises its power to create societal change at local, regional, and national level and key to that is fostering a culture of understanding, empathy, and respect for its students and staff.
The principles of the University of Sanctuary initiative are to learn, embed, and share. Through learning, SETU pledges to continuously better understand the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers and recognizing the resilience and strength they bring to the wider community. Achieving this includes on training staff, teaching students, and holding events to raise awareness on what it means to be seeking sanctuary.
SETU aims to embed the principles of safety, welcome, and inclusion in every aspect of the institution creating a sustainable culture of acceptance and support. The university is also committed to sharing its achievements and learnings by collaborating with other universities, local communities, and media on EDI activities to affect change in wider society.
To learn more about the University of Sanctuary initiative click here.
Photo Caption: SETU staff and students attend the cross-campus introduction of the University of Sanctuary initiative.