What is diversity
Diversity is an umbrella term which includes characteristics or factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age and socioeconomic status. Diversity refers to all of the characteristics that make individuals different from each other.
Diversity or equal opportunities - what's the difference?
Some important distinctions between the concepts of equal opportunities and diversity:
- Equal opportunities signals an institution's commitment in adhering to external legislation and initiatives.
Diversity signals an institution's commitment to fostering a culture of diversity within its workforce to promote a happier, creative and productive environment. - Equal opportunities indicates a compliance with legislation.
Diversity indicates value-driven strategies over and above legal frameworks. - Equal opportunities aims for parity across the workforce.
Diversity aims for positive acceptance of differences throughout the workforce. - Equal opportunities protects the population groups covered by the various legislative acts.
Diversity develops all population groups even if not covered by legislative acts. - Equal opportunities is usually promoted by a policy group within an organisation.
Diversity is cultivated throughout the workforce of an organisation.
Diversity in the university and beyond
Diversity in the university
How the university recognises and implements diversity.
Diversity in the community
The importance of recognising diversity in the wider community.
