Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Coordination Office of Corporate Planning and Data Management

The equality, diversity, and inclusion policy of Atılım University reflects our commitment to creating and maintaining a positive, encouraging, and supportive higher education environment for university staff. Through this approach, the University aims to provide a quality education and research environment and support students in their academic and personal development. Atılım University places great importance on diversity, equality, and inclusion among its staff and students. The University aims to create an empowering higher education environment where staff and students are equally respected and valued on an individual level, where diversity is an asset, and where university staff and students are able to achieve their true potential, and benefit from, and enjoy participating in higher education at Atılım University.

Atılım University strives to be recognized as a model university for transformative diversity, inclusivity, and social mobility through the critical role of leadership in embedding intersectional EDI among foundation universities in Türkiye.  The University is committed to providing a sustainable environment that fosters an open and diverse community that reflects our values ​​and behaviors.  The University respects the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of their background. Atılım University believes that unlawful discrimination, intimidation, or harassment of anyone affiliated with the University, particularly regarding race, religion or belief, age, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or maternity and pregnancy, will not be tolerated.

Atılım University seeks to be recognized within the Turkish higher education ecosystem as an institution that promotes the value of diverse cultures and beliefs, and where these diverse experiences make the University a better place to work and study. The University recognizes that equality, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental approaches to good governance and that these principles support the achievement of the University of our strategic priorities and outcomes related to social contribution. The University aims to create and strengthen a university culture and environment that embraces ethical values ​​based on equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity Policy Statement

Atılım University embraces equality, diversity, and inclusion as core values ​​for policy development, with the following objectives in mind:

  • Taking serious measures against and combating discrimination, harassment, and abuse
  • Respecting and celebrating diversity and intercultural interaction
  • Ensuring the success of university staff and students, regardless of their background
  • Identifying and eliminating barriers to equality, regardless of personal identities
  • Providing an inclusive environment that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion

Scope of Declaration

The principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion stipulate the rules of conduct for all staff and students associated with the functions Atılım University toward one another, all visitors, subcontractors, service providers, suppliers, and others.

All members of the Atılım University community consider the following approach:

  • Ensuring that the goals and values ​​set forth in this policy statement are appropriately reflected in all job descriptions
  • Investigating whether any groups, including those with "protected characteristics," have certain requirements regarding their access to services
  • Ensuring that due consideration is given to equality, diversity, and inclusivity within their areas of influence
  • Promoting an environment where everyone is respected and mutual understanding is encouraged
  • Challenging any action or behavior that contradicts the values ​​and principles set forth in this policy
  • Ensuring that staff and students are informed on how to report incidents of discrimination, bullying, and harassment without fear of victimization
  • Promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion for all and working to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment.
  • Challenging inappropriate behavior or discrimination and reporting unacceptable behavior in accordance with the policies and procedures of the University.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity Principles

Our commitment and action towards equality, diversity, and inclusivity are supported by the following principles:

  • Education is an undeniable, recognized fundamental right of humanity, in accordance with the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
  • Higher education is equally accessible to all, regardless of background, based on merit, and all members of the university are expected to treat each other with respect and consider their dignity.
  • University members collaborate to promote policies, processes, and cultures that reflect the University's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion and reflect the needs of a diverse University community.
  • The University strives to remove barriers to access, success, and advancement for all members of the University community, with a responsibility to contribute to a positive and inclusive culture.

Priorities for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity

Atılım University prioritizes the following regarding our students and staff:

  • Observing laws and regulations to ensure equitable, inclusive, and accessible learning and working environments for members
  • Establishing institutional policies, procedures, processes, practices, and approaches that are equitable, inclusive, and welcoming for diverse needs
  • Building student and staff capacity to create shared inclusive educational and working cultures
  • Making reasonable adjustments to meet the needs of diverse students and staff and addressing on-campus needs
  • Improving educational access, participation, and success among underrepresented or disadvantaged student groups through initiatives and programs
  • Supporting staff with inclusive and accessible development, training, and career advancement opportunities for specific groups
  • Developing a preventative and sensitive approach to addressing bullying, harassment, or discrimination