An inclusive community
At THUAS, with over 150 nationalities among students and staff, we have a rich mix of perspectives and experiences. That is why we are committed to an inclusive learning and working environment. You only reap the benefits of diversity when everyone feels at home and equality of opportunity is the norm.
What is the difference between diversity and inclusion?
Diversity is about differences. As diversity grows, so does the number of differences between people. Both visibly and invisibly. This includes differences in background, age, culture, gender identity, physical characteristics, religion and sexual orientation.
Inclusion is about properly dealing with those differences. In an inclusive environment, all differences are respected. This makes everyone feel heard, seen and taken seriously. In a safe learning environment, the plethora of perspectives leads to better results (scientifically proven!).
Our vision
THUAS aims to be an inclusive university of applied sciences. That is why diversity and inclusion are embedded in our 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, and we have laid down our vision on these topics in the document An inclusive university of applied sciences. This is based on three guiding principles:
Combating discrimination
We are committed to equality of opportunity and standing on equal footing.
Racism and discrimination have no place at THUAS.
Inclusive manners
We encourage an open and curious attitude.
We recognise and value people for who they are.
Inclusive governance
We create the right conditions for an inclusive learning and working environment in everything we do.
An inclusive learning environment
At THUAS, we are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that promotes equal opportunities and academic success. After all, different students have different educational needs. We structurally and actively listen to our students to anticipate these needs. We translate their feedback into our education, our support and assessments.
Our Global & Inclusive Learning Centre of Expertise contributes to this strongly, through research on topics such as internship discrimination, social safety, educational support and student participation. The insights gained enable us to evaluate our practices, giving us the possibility to adjust them where necessary.
The Inclusion Office
Since 2022, THUAS has an Inclusion Office that is structurally committed to diversity and inclusion. This Office provides advice - solicited and unsolicited - and develops policy plans and protocols. It also organises training sessions and team discussions to embed diversity and inclusion in our education and in our organisation.