10.6.6
Support for Underrepresented Groups Policy
1. Purpose
This policy establishes the University of Thessaly’s institutional framework for providing equitable access, participation, and success for underrepresented and vulnerable groups in higher education. The purpose is to ensure that all members of the University community are supported to achieve their full academic, professional, and social potential.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all aspects of University operations, including:
– Student recruitment, admission, and retention.
– Academic support, mentoring, and scholarships.
– Employment and promotion practices for faculty and staff.
– Campus facilities, accessibility, and digital inclusion.
– Community outreach and lifelong learning initiatives.
The policy covers all underrepresented groups, including (but not limited to): women in STEM fields, persons with disabilities, refugees, migrants, low-income students, first-generation university students, Roma communities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
3. Definitions
– Underrepresented Groups: Populations that are historically excluded or marginalized within higher education systems.
– Equity: Fairness in access, opportunities, and outcomes, taking into account structural inequalities.
– Inclusion: The active process of ensuring that every individual feels valued, respected, and supported.
– Accessibility: Ensuring that physical, digital, and social environments are usable by all individuals, including those with disabilities.
– Targeted Support: Special initiatives designed to eliminate barriers faced by specific groups.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly affirms its commitment to social justice, equal opportunity, and inclusion. To achieve these aims, the University shall:
1. Develop inclusive admission and recruitment policies for students and staff.
2. Provide academic, psychological, and financial support services for underrepresented groups.
3. Establish scholarships and bursaries for disadvantaged students.
4. Ensure campus infrastructure is accessible and inclusive.
5. Promote inclusive teaching practices and curriculum design.
6. Encourage staff diversity and representation in governance bodies.
7. Maintain mechanisms for confidential reporting of discrimination or exclusion.
8. Collaborate with local, national, and international organizations to promote inclusion.
9. Collect and analyze anonymized data to monitor participation and success rates.
10. Integrate support for underrepresented groups into the University’s Strategic Plan 2030.
5. Implementation Responsibilities
The University oversees implementation and coordinates with relevant departments. It provides direct support to students through advisory, counseling, and mentoring programs. The Rector monitors institutional compliance. Each Department Head ensures inclusive teaching and fair treatment within academic units. The Quality Assurance Unit (MODIP) evaluates outcomes and recommends improvements.
6. Resources and Support Services
The University shall provide:
– Dedicated mentorship and peer-support programmes.
– Academic skills workshops and personalized tutoring.
– Accessible learning technologies and assistive tools.
– Psychological and career counseling services.
– Targeted outreach and transition support for first-generation students.
7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
The University shall monitor policy effectiveness through data collection and surveys. Indicators include participation rates, academic outcomes, satisfaction surveys, and retention data. Annual reports shall be presented to the Governing Council and published in a relevant Report.
8. Review and Amendment
This policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or earlier if required due to institutional or legislative changes. Revisions shall be proposed by the relevant office and approved by the Governing Council.
9. References and Legal Framework
– Greek Law 4957/2022 (Articles 1–3, 74–76) on Equality and Inclusion in Higher Education
– Greek Law 4488/2017 on Gender Equality and Equal Opportunities
– UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 10)
– European Pillar of Social Rights (2017)
– UNESCO Global Convention on Higher Education (2019)