Why do we work on diversity?
OsloMet is subject to the purpose of the Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act: To promote equality and prevent discrimination on all grounds. The university’s work to promote diversity is based on the sector goals and allocation letter issued by the Ministry of Education and Research as well as on OsloMet’s Strategy 2024. The university board has also decided that OsloMet will commit to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 5: Achieve equality.
OsloMet’s work on diversity is, however, about more than just a duty to meet legal requirements. Diversity is one of the university’s core values ‘because it is considered an important resource at OsloMet, and we believe that diversity of background and experience among staff and students is a strength in developing research and education in a society and region that are becoming increasingly diverse’ (Strategy 2024).
From gender equality to diversity
The university takes as its point of departure the expanded equality concept, diversity. Equality has traditionally been about gender equality to guarantee women and men equal rights and opportunities. However, gender is only one of several inequality dimensions in society. Prejudices, obstacles and keys to development can be complex, and this complexity should and must be taken into account by OsloMet.
Meeting the mandatory GEP-requirements
Under Horizon Europe, having a gender Equality Plan (GEP) will be an eligibility criterion for higher education establishments from EU Member States and Associates Countries, such as Norway.
Read more about how OsloMet meet these mandatory requirements.
Key documents
Organisation of the work
The university has a dedicated position responsible for OsloMet’s diversity work. Programme Director – Culture and Diversity, Vibeke Horn, is a certified diversity manager and chair of OsloMet’s diversity committee.
OsloMet’s diversity committee has an interdisciplinary composition, and has the following remit:
- To be a sparring partner for the senior management in matters concerning diversity
- To be a consultative body in matters concerning diversity and equality
- To be jointly responsible for following up the university’s action plan for diversity
