Racial, Ethnic, and Gender Diversity
Embracing racial, ethnic, and gender diversity in international universities is a step toward promoting equality and social justice. It helps break down barriers and prejudices, creating a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. Embracing racial and ethnic diversity ensures that students from various backgrounds bring their unique experiences, cultural perspectives, and knowledge to the academic community. This diversity enriches the learning environment, promoting cross-cultural understanding and fostering a broader global outlook among students and faculty.
There are some top universities known for their efforts in promoting racial and ethnic diversity. Some national universities that score on the higher side of diversity in US News and World Report on ‘Campus Ethnic Diversity’ are Andrews University, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Stanford University, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, University of San Francisco, Johns Hopkins University, among others.
Additionally, many universities worldwide have taken significant steps like dedicated scholarships, leadership programs for women, and strong gender studies programs to promote gender equality and create inclusive environments for women.
For example, MIT's Women's and Gender Studies Program explores issues of gender, sexuality, and power through interdisciplinary courses, research, and events. It aims to promote gender equality and empower students to engage with these topics critically.
Similarly, the University of Cape Town has established the Gender Equity Unit to address gender-based violence, harassment, and discrimination on campus. The university also offers scholarships and bursaries for women and promotes women's leadership in various academic and administrative positions.
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Affirmative Action
Affirmative action policies ensure that universities reflect the diversity of society, providing opportunities for individuals from different backgrounds to access higher education. This diversity enriches the learning environment, promotes cultural exchange, and fosters a more inclusive campus community. While the specific approach and implementation of affirmative action may vary among countries and institutions, several international universities have adopted measures to promote diversity and inclusion through affirmative action policies.
For example, The University of Oxford and the National University of Singapore have set targets to increase the number of students from underrepresented backgrounds and have adopted contextual admissions, considering applicants' backgrounds and educational experiences to provide fair opportunities.
Disclaimer: upGrad Abroad is not affiliated with the universities mentioned in the blog. The information provided is for general use only.