This is the way we work at University West

In January of 2021 the Vice Chancellor took a decision regarding an overarching strategy for sustainable development in which the goal of equal terms for all is included. In this strategy there are several objectives and priorities stated that will bring our efforts to establish a level playing field and take active measures in line with current legislation regarding a level playing field for students. The strategy is the foundation for our work at the local level (that is to say, in each department and programme).

The university’s responsibility based upon anti-discrimination legislation

The university’s role as an education provider has a legal obligation to promote a good environment and prevent abusive behaviour using active measures for creating a workplace free from discrimination based upon the seven motives for discrimination. Taking active measures means that we continuously implement efforts in four steps (investigate, analyse, take measures, follow up) in five areas. Our work on creating an environment free from discrimination comprises an important part of the systematic planning included in our work environment project (in which the university’s efforts to prevent victimization also figure).

The university has the obligation to investigate the circumstances when a student feels that they have been subjected to harassment or sexual harassment (related to the motives for discrimination) and see to it that any abuse stops. The education provider/employer can also be notified of problems in various ways and by persons other than the one who has been subjected to discrimination. These other people also have an obligation to take action.

Leadership’s responsibility

The Vice Chancellor has the overarching responsibility for the university’s work environment project in which are included the goal of equal terms for all, as well as the prevention of and dealing with discrimination. Heads of department, the university director, the library director as well as the heads of the various divisions and sections have direct responsibility for preventing discrimination and victimisation in their department/sections (delegated by the V.C.). Those in leadership positions further have an obligation to investigate and take measures if there is any suspicion of sexual harassment or harassment.

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Students and co-workers’ responsibility

Each co-worker and student at University West should take personal responsibility for preventing discrimination and victimisation among colleagues, students, student peers, and employees of the university in their daily encounters. This should be done by treating one another with respect and working to create an environment free from discrimination. By filing a complaint about any abuse that comes to your attention, you are taking responsibility. Educators have a particularly important role to play in preventing harassment, discrimination, and victimisation in conjunction with classes they are teaching.

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The coordination group for a level playing field

The Vice Chancellor tasks an HR strategist for Equal Terms and the Coordination Group for Equal Terms with planning and coordinating for a level playing field. The coordinator/HR-specialist initiates and process plans the university’s overarching project that deals with questions of equal terms for all. The project is carried out in close coordination with the student ombudsman/lawyer, the Coordinator for Students with Disabilities, the Centre for Diversity, HR, and the Student Union. Proposals, documents, schemes, and implementation of the project to create a level playing field are processed in the Coordination Group for Equal Terms. This group discusses, proposes, and formulates goals and measures in the effort to establish a level playing field and discusses current events and issues related to this area as well as supporting the divisions in their local efforts.

The chairperson of the Coordination Group for Equal Terms is the Pro-Vice-Chancellor. The Coordination Group is also made up of representatives from leadership in the divisions (which together with the heads of these divisions are tasked with overseeing, promoting, and coordinating the effort to create a level playing field at the division level), co-workers who are experts in this area, and representatives of the employees and the students.

Updated 15 Jan 2021

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