In a significant move to reinforce its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) has launched its Strategy for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) 2025 to 2028. This comprehensive strategy sets out a clear roadmap to embed EDI principles across all facets of university life, including teaching, research, leadership, and decision-making.
A Strategic Response to Global Challenges
The launch of TU Dublin’s EDI Strategy comes at a critical juncture, as universities worldwide face increasing scrutiny and challenges regarding their EDI initiatives. Some institutions have scaled back or reframed their commitments in response to shifting political and social landscapes. However, TU Dublin is taking a firm stance, reaffirming that equality and inclusion are not optional add-ons but fundamental to academic excellence, institutional integrity, and public trust.
Speaking at the launch event, TU Dublin President Dr Deirdre Lillis emphasized the university’s unwavering commitment: “At a time when equality, diversity and inclusion practices are being challenged in some parts of the world, it is now more important than ever that universities stand firm in their values. TU Dublin has a responsibility, as a university, a public institution, and a community, to protect hard-won progress and ensure that inclusion, fairness, and respect remain central to everything we do.”
Reflecting Ireland’s Most Diverse Student Population
TU Dublin is already recognized for having one of the most diverse student populations in Ireland. The university’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its statistics: 28% of new undergraduate entrants come through access routes, with TU Dublin maintaining the highest proportion of access students nationally at 12.5%. The university also provides 13% of the national provision for students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, 11% for students with disabilities, and 9% for Irish Traveller enrolments. These figures underscore TU Dublin’s role as Ireland’s most accessible university.
Seven Change Pathways for Systemic Integration
A central feature of the new strategy is the identification of seven change pathways designed to embed EDI into everyday practice and decision-making. These pathways cover:
- Teaching and learning
- Research
- EDI action planning
- Policy impact assessment
- Project and change management
- Risk management
- Faculty, school, and functional strategy development
This approach moves EDI beyond standalone initiatives, making it an integral part of the university’s routine functioning. By integrating EDI considerations across core areas, TU Dublin aims to create a culture where equality and inclusion are not just policies but lived experiences.
Five Priority Focus Areas for 2025-2028
The strategy identifies five priority focus areas for the 2025-2028 period:
- Gender equality
- Race and ethnicity
- Disability inclusion
- Ending gender-based violence
- Intersectionality
Progress in these areas will be tracked through defined objectives, measurable indicators, and annual reporting. This commitment to transparency and accountability ensures that TU Dublin’s EDI efforts are not only ambitious but also measurable and impactful.
A Model for Higher Education and Beyond
TU Dublin’s EDI Strategy is not just a roadmap for the university but also a potential model for higher education institutions and public sector organizations across Ireland and internationally. By embedding EDI into governance, policy, and everyday practice, TU Dublin aims to demonstrate that meaningful, lasting change is possible when equality and inclusion are prioritized at every level.
As the university moves forward with this strategy, it reaffirms its commitment to creating a community where every student, staff member, and partner can belong, thrive, and contribute fully. In doing so, TU Dublin is not only protecting hard-won progress but also paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in higher education.
For more information, you can access the full TU Dublin Strategy for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) 2025 to 2028 here.
