Gender Equality Plan
Gender equality is a fundamental value that benefits institutions in many ways. In research and innovation (R&I) it can help to improve the quality and relevance of R&I as well as attract and retain talent while ensuring that everyone can maximize their potential.
The introduction of the Gender Equality Plan (GEP) eligibility criterion in Horizon Europe aims to support efforts in Gender equality.
The Vetmeduni’s commitment to the objectives of gender equality, diversity and non-discrimination is long-standing and well established. The University is consistently working toward becoming a highly inclusive institution that keeps an eye on any kind of discrimination and promotes equal opportunities and gender equality wherever possible.
In the eyes of the Vetmeduni, a non-discriminatory and equality-based environment requires an understanding that we need to deal with one another in a respectful and sensitive manner and create the conditions for equal participation in university life for
each and every one. The notion of gender equality covers staff and students of the university as well as prospective students and student candidates.
The professed aim of the Vetmeduni is to be an institution of inclusion and equality, meaning that it is constantly striving to effectively eliminate existing barriers, mechanisms of exclusion and discrimination.
Diversity and gender equality are a strategic cross-cutting theme of the university’s development efforts
■ to create a socially more inclusive access to study programmes and optimise academic feasibility in a diversity-sensitive manner;
■ to enable both students and staff to pursue their personal and career development in the best possible way;
■ to be attractive and open to the best minds; and
■ to achieve socially relevant and sustainable results in research and teaching, with heterogeneity being a conscious and consistent element therein.
In its effort to promote diversity and gender equality, the Vetmeduni specifically addresses the two main target groups of ‘students’ and ‘staff’ with targeted policies and cross-dimensional approaches that mutually supplement each other.
Structure
The Vetmeduni’s GEP consists of 3 parts that complement each other. The documents constituting the GEP are published in the University’s official communication, signed by the Rectorate.
Part 1 “Data”
This part contains gender disaggregated data on staff and students collected annually. Data and indicators are monitored, reported and published annually in the University’s Intellectual Capital Report (Wissensbilanz). In addition, the University publishes a Gender Equality Report on a triennial basis, synchronous with the University’s performance agreement period.
Part 2 “Strategy”
This part is dedicated to the strategic analysis and strategic development of gender equality and diversity based on current trends and data. It is revised triennially in concurrence with the strategic plan of the university.
Strategy on social dimension and diversity
Part 3 “Legal”
This part contains equality documents as mandated by the Austrian Law.
Plan for the advancement of women
Further details on equality measures can be found on our internal VetEasy page.