The AAU’s diversity strategy sees itself as situated, sustainable and transformative in the sense of an engaged university and meets the socio-political challenges of our time. It considers the diversity of university members and students as new target groups are approached. The university sees diversity as a cross-sectional task that is implemented at all levels and incorporates diversity sustainably and inclusively in its organisational structure and culture. The reduction and elimination of discrimination, stereotyping and prejudice is a precondition for enabling educational opportunities and the development of individual potential. In its mission statement for teaching the University of Klagenfurt states, among other things, that it takes its social responsibility seriously and strives to ensure equality in education through an attractive teaching programme of high-quality and with equal opportunities in mind, that is characterised by support, tolerance, integration and appreciation of all university members and staff, opposing all forms of discrimination, racism and political extremism. The University constantly evaluates existing diversity programmes and measures in order to build develop a diversity strategy in line with existing university strategies and mission statements.
The University of Klagenfurt is building a diversity-oriented and inclusive organisational culture and structure that promotes equal opportunities and eliminates discrimination. It pursues an intersectional approach that addresses different diversity dimensions with regard to existing discrimination and privileges.
The diversity strategy takes into account the differences and similarities of university members. It is based on a university of diversity. In line with the empowerment approach, the university refers to people’s existing capabilities and aims to promote and develop individual abilities in the best possible way in order to enable outstanding academic and professional performance.
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‘By participating in the Audit “Vielfalt gestalten”, the University has set itself the task of addressing the increasing diversification of students and employees at the University of Klagenfurt with measures to create equal opportunities,’ says the Diversity Audit steering group. The Senate issued a positive statement on the diversity strategy in autumn 2023. Within the audit process ways to develop and implement a diversity strategy are explored.
Sustainable structures and measures are created to firmly anchor and further develop the understanding of diversity in the university sector. These measures range from the promotion of First Academics for example and the strongly institutionalised gender mainstreaming to aspects of internationalisation. The aim of the audit is to structure existing measures, design improvement measures and implement new strategies effectively and sustainably.
