The importance of EDI in higher education

The best talent is highly mobile, and institutions perceived as not being diverse, or failing to take EDI seriously, are likely to be avoided by individuals and groups who believe they might be disadvantaged. Equally, institutions viewed as accommodating EDI are more likely to attract and retain a broad base of students and staff.

What do governors need to be concerned about?

The best talent is highly mobile, and institutions perceived as not being diverse, or failing to take EDI seriously, are likely to be avoided by individuals and groups who believe they might be disadvantaged. Equally, institutions viewed as accommodating EDI are more likely to attract and retain a broad base of students and staff.

Institutions need to support all learners, whether they have or are from different religious, cultural backgrounds or social settings. Equally, international students need to be appropriately supported by the institution.

The importance of oversight

Many institutional mission and value statements incorporate a commitment to EDI, and focus on linked concepts such as internationalisation or social and civic duties. However, mission and value statements are only effective when translated into action. The governing body’s role in providing oversight of the institution’s direction and performance should ensure the institution delivers on EDI commitments and objectives.

Processes and assurance

  • Has the institution established key performance indicators (KPIs), including reference to clear benchmarks and detailed targets, for EDI?
  • Has the institution taken effective action to support and integrate international students within its communities?
  • Does the institution regularly survey different student and staff groups to gain feedback on its EDI policies and practices, and take action where responses suggest the need for change?

EDI in a global market

As institutions continue to compete for, and recruit, staff and students globally, and some launch campuses and partnerships overseas, their student and staff communities are becoming increasingly diverse in terms of race, nationality, religious and cultural backgrounds.
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Improving staff diversity

Certain minority groups are under-represented in HE employment or face barriers to progression in their HE careers. This means that their institution does not always benefit fully from the skills and expertise of all their staff, or potential staff.
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Find out more about governance and EDI 

 Governance and EDI