For equality across the board

To further advance gender equality and diversity awareness at the university and in the Lausitz region. That is the goal of the Center for Gender Equality, Inclusion, Women’s and Diversity Studies (AGIFD) at the University of Zittau/Görlitz. The AGIFD has now begun its work.

Following an intensive preparation period, the center’s first meeting took place on July 6, 2022, in the Senate Hall in Zittau. More than twenty interested individuals took the opportunity that day to engage in an initial in-depth exchange and shared their ideas on how to make the university’s development more gender- and diversity-equitable. Following a welcome address by Rector Prof. Dr. Alexander Kratzsch, a presentation of the unit’s fundamental objectives by Prorector for Research Prof. Dr. Raj Kollmorgen, and introductory expert insights from Monique Ritter (M.A.), the participants engaged in a lively debate. In an open discussion, needs and positions were articulated, and the AGIFD’s programmatic directions and possible implementation strategies were discussed.

It was agreed to establish a functional organizational structure in the coming months and to develop a work plan for the upcoming 2022–23 academic year in order to highlight the various perspectives on gender equality and diversity policy at the university and in the region (Upper) Lausitz, to discuss them, and to work together on ideas and solutions.

A big thank you goes to all colleagues and students who enriched the center’s first meeting with their contributions to the discussion, suggestions, and ideas. The Center invites all interested university staff members and students to participate in its ongoing work. You are warmly welcome! For further information, please contact Monique Ritter.