In a landmark achievement, the University of Malta has been awarded the prestigious Equality Mark by the National Commission for the Promotion of Equality (NCPE). This recognition celebrates the university's unwavering commitment to fostering Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) within its academic and administrative realms.
Founded over four centuries ago, the University of Malta has witnessed and contributed to significant societal transformations. Among these milestones, the enhanced representation of women in both student and faculty populations stands out. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the intrinsic right to education for every individual, irrespective of gender or other unique characteristics. Moving beyond the charity-centric models of the past, the university has embraced a robust commitment to inclusivity and equality.
Since Malta gained sovereignty 60 years ago, education has been viewed as a key driver of social mobility. The abolition of tuition fees for Maltese citizens and the introduction of stipends for tertiary students played a crucial role in democratising education. These policies particularly benefitted first-generation students and lead to a notable increase in female graduates. Since the 1990s, women have outnumbered men in undergraduate programmes, now comprising around 60% of the student body. This March, another milestone was achieved as the number of female doctoral graduates surpassed that of their male counterparts.
As the second-largest employer in Malta after the state, the University of Malta is deeply aware of its societal influence. The institution's strategic objectives extend beyond academia to influence policy and drive broader societal change. The Gender+ Equity Policy and Action Plan, alongside the establishment of the Equity Office in 2022, exemplify this commitment. The Equity Office addresses a wide range of equity issues through an intersectional lens, acknowledging the complex interplay of gender with disability, race, ethnicity and social class.
The university's zero-tolerance stance on bullying, harassment and especially sexual harassment is central to transforming its organisational culture. Recognising and treating students and staff as individuals is fundamental to the university's ethos. While academic standards remain crucial, perspectives that view individuals through a deficit lens are detrimental to both personal and institutional interests. The expanded scope and reach of the Health and Wellness Centre underscore this commitment. Significant investments have been made, including the recruitment of additional psychologists, therapists and full-time social workers.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Gender imbalances in academic disciplines persist, with efforts underway to address these disparities. The University actively seeks to correct gender imbalances in Stem fields, which is crucial in a technology and AI driven world. On the other hand the under-representation of men in education and social well-being professions must also be addressed. Under-representation limits diverse perspectives, impacting research, innovation and societal development.
Networking with other entities and academic institutions worldwide is integral to the University's approach. Learning from established procedures and models of good practice from colleagues in other settings provides new perspectives and valuable feedback.
Achieving success in EDI initiatives requires both visionary leadership and grassroots involvement. University leaders must embody conviction and tirelessly promote equity and justice, while also listening to the aspirations of students and staff. The collaborative efforts of the university community, including student representatives on various committees and the support of the KSU, are essential to these initiatives.
The University of Malta's receipt of the Equality Mark is a testament to its ongoing commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. This recognition not only celebrates past achievements but also reinforces the university's dedication to fostering equity, diversity and inclusion for the betterment of all.