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SDG 5- GENDER EQUALITY

5.3.1.

Aegean College is committed to promoting gender equality and ensuring a fair and transparent admission process. We systematically measure and track women’s application rates as well as acceptance or entry rates to monitor and address any gender disparities that may arise during the admissions process. This commitment aligns with our dedication to supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

Aegean College employs numerous practices to systematically measure and track women’s application and acceptance rates:

Data Collection and Analysis: We collect detailed data on the gender distribution of applicants and admitted students across various academic programs. This data is regularly analyzed internally to identify patterns, trends, and potential areas where gender imbalances may exist. It is also used to inform Governmental Bodies, such as the Greek Ministry of Education.

Annual Institutional Reports on Gender Diversity: Aegean College generates and publishes annual Institutional reports that include comprehensive information on gender diversity in admissions. These reports highlight the percentage of women applicants, acceptance rates, and the representation of women in different academic disciplines.

Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Aegean College Admissions department continuously monitors and evaluates the gender-specific data throughout the admissions cycle, for all levels of education, Undergraduate and/or Postgraduate offered.  This allows for real-time adjustments to address any observed imbalances and ensures a proactive approach to promoting gender equality.

Admission Policies and Outreach Programs: Based on the insights gained from the tracking process, Aegean College develops targeted admission policies and outreach programs to encourage more women to apply to underrepresented academic programs. These initiatives aim to eliminate barriers and biases that may deter women from pursuing specific fields of study.

Collaboration with Women’s Support Organizations: Aegean College collaborates with external organizations and networks that focus on women’s education and empowerment.

This collaboration enhances outreach efforts and provides additional support mechanisms for women applicants.

By systematically measuring and tracking women’s application and acceptance rates, Aegean College is dedicated to fostering a gender-inclusive environment and contributing to the global efforts outlined in SDG 5. Through ongoing assessment and strategic initiatives, we strive to create equal opportunities for women in higher education.

Seminar for Women's Support

The seminar entitled: “Stand Up” was held at Aegean College in Athens in December 2022, by the Non-Governmental Organization W.I.N. HELLAS (Women in Need Hellas).

W.I.N. HELLAS (Women in Need Hellas) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering women and fostering gender equality. Through community engagement, education, and advocacy, W.I.N. HELLAS strives to create a world where women can reach their full potential. W.I.N. HELLAS believes in creating a world where women can thrive, breaking barriers and achieving their full potential. The organization focuses on fostering a supportive community, providing resources, and organizing events that promote gender equality, education, and empowerment. Aegean College Students but also women from the wider community found the event useful, informative, and educating.

The aim was to inform and empower a wider group of people with different living conditions, which will encourage to stand up and feel safe in case they are harassed in a public place or witness a similar incident.

At Aegean College we believe everyone is entitled to education, which can contribute to enhancing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Link here.

ιεθνής Υποστήριξη Γυναικών.

5.3.2.

Aegean College is firmly committed to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in all aspects of College life. We have implemented a comprehensive Gender Equality Policy that addresses women’s applications, acceptance/entry, and active participation at the university. This policy reflects our dedication to the principles outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls.

Key components of our Gender Equality Policy include:

Equal Opportunities in Admissions: Aegean College actively encourages and supports women’s applications to our academic programs.

Admission processes are designed to be fair, transparent, and free from gender bias, ensuring equal opportunities for women to enter and pursue higher education.

Promoting Gender Diversity Across Disciplines: We recognize the importance of gender balance in various academic disciplines. Efforts are made to encourage women to pursue studies in fields traditionally underrepresented by females.

Initiatives such as mentorship programs and outreach activities are in place to inspire and support women in choosing diverse academic paths.

Addressing Barriers to Participation: We actively identify and address barriers that may hinder women’s full and active participation in academic and extracurricular activities.

This includes addressing challenges related to work-life balance, and any other factors that may disproportionately affect women.

Participation and Engagement: We are committed to fostering a campus culture that values diversity and inclusivity, actively encouraging the participation of women in various academic and extracurricular activities.

Initiatives such as mentorship programs, networking events, and leadership development opportunities are in place to empower and support women throughout their university experience.

Access and Support Services: Aegean College provides specific support services to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women, ensuring a conducive learning and working environment.

We have established resource centers, counseling services, and flexible accommodations to support women in balancing academic and personal responsibilities.

Regular Review and Improvement: Aegean College regularly reviews and updates its Gender Equality Policy to adapt to the evolving needs and challenges faced by women in academia.

Feedback mechanisms are in place to gather input from Aegean College community and stakeholders, ensuring continuous improvement.

By implementing and actively promoting our Gender Equality Policy, Aegean College is dedicated to contributing to the advancement of gender equality, both within our academic community and as part of the broader societal goals outlined in SDG 5.”

5.3.3.

The response below addresses the specific target 5.3.3 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on eliminating harmful practices and discrimination against women through various means, including providing access schemes. Access schemes can include initiatives such as mentoring, scholarships, or other provisions to enhance women’s access to education and opportunities.

Aegean College is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women through various access schemes. These initiatives are designed to eliminate barriers and provide additional support to ensure women have equal opportunities to access and succeed in education and other aspects of university life, aligning with the specific target 5.3.3 of SDG 5.

Aegean College’s women’s access schemes include:

Mentoring Programs: We have established mentoring programs that pair female students with experienced mentors, providing guidance, support, and networking opportunities.

These mentoring relationships aim to empower women by fostering personal and professional development, and by helping them navigate the academic and career landscape.

Scholarships for Women: Aegean College offers scholarships specifically for women to encourage and support their pursuit of higher education.

These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards specific fields where women are underrepresented. Aegean College

Career Development Workshops: We organize workshops and seminars focused on enhancing the career development and leadership skills of women.

These workshops cover topics such as negotiation skills, effective communication, and strategies for overcoming gender-specific challenges in the workplace.

Support for Work-Life Balance: Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, Aegean College provides support services and policies that accommodate the needs of women, including flexible work hours, parental leave, and childcare facilities.

Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: Aegean College actively engages in advocacy and awareness campaigns to promote gender equality and challenge stereotypes.

These campaigns aim to create a supportive and inclusive culture that encourages women to pursue academic and professional aspirations without facing discrimination.

Community Engagement Programs: Aegean College encourages women’s participation in community engagement programs, fostering a sense of social responsibility and empowering them to make positive contributions to society.

By implementing these women’s access schemes, Aegean College is actively contributing to the achievement of SDG 5.3.3, working towards a more inclusive and equitable environment where women can access education, thrive academically, and achieve their full potential.”

5.3.4.

Aegean College is committed to promoting diversity and gender equality, and we actively encourage applications from women in subjects where they are traditionally underrepresented. Recognizing the importance of addressing gender imbalances in various academic disciplines, Aegean College has implemented specific initiatives to create a more inclusive environment.

Our efforts to encourage applications by women in underrepresented subjects include:

Outreach Programs: We engage in targeted outreach programs to high schools and communities to raise awareness among young women about the opportunities available in subjects where they are traditionally underrepresented.

These programs highlight the importance of diversity in academic disciplines and provide information about the supportive environment and resources available at Aegean College.

Collaboration with Schools and Organizations: We collaborate with schools, educational organizations, and industry partners to create pathways for women to explore and pursue subjects in which they are underrepresented.

Partnerships may involve mentorship programs, workshops, and events that showcase successful women in these fields.

Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Initiatives: For subjects like STEM, where women are often underrepresented, we have established specific initiatives to encourage and support female applicants. These initiatives may include targeted recruitment efforts, scholarships, and mentorship programs aimed at increasing the representation of women in STEM fields.

Diversity and Inclusion Policies: Aegean College has adopted and actively promotes diversity and inclusion policies that underscore the importance of a balanced representation of genders in all academic disciplines. These policies aim to create an environment where women feel welcomed, supported, and valued throughout their academic journey.

Transparent Admission Processes: Our admission processes are designed to be transparent, fair, and free from gender bias.We provide information and resources to potential applicants, emphasizing our commitment to diversity and encouraging women to pursue their academic interests.

Celebrating Success Stories: We celebrate the achievements of women who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated subjects. Highlighting success stories serves as inspiration for prospective female applicants and reinforces our commitment to supporting women in all academic disciplines.

By actively encouraging applications from women in subjects where they are underrepresented, Aegean College is working towards creating a more inclusive and diverse academic community, contributing to the broader goal of gender equality.

Aegean College Counselling Services
The Scheme on “Counselling Services in Support of Women from underrepresented groups” is designed to provide assistance and support to women affiliated with non-governmental organizations, who have experienced harassment or violence. Organized by Aegean College, the month-long initiative aims to educate and empower young women, encouraging them to consider pursuing university studies.
The scheme focuses on providing counseling services to address the psychological and emotional impact of harassment or violence while simultaneously fostering a positive environment that promotes education and personal development.
Through this comprehensive approach, the scheme aims to contribute to the overall well-being and academic aspirations of the participating women.
Mrs Kyriaki Theodosi Polymeri, the renowned psychotherapist academic of the School of Psychology of Aegean College and long term collaborator of the College, is leading the project with a handful of other psychologists of Aegean College.

Link Here.

Counselling Services Aegean College

5.6.1.  

Aegean College is committed to fostering a campus environment that upholds the principles of equality and non-discrimination, and we have a comprehensive policy in place to explicitly address and prevent discrimination against women. This commitment aligns with the specific target 5.6.1 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Aegean College’s policy of non-discrimination against women includes the following key components:

Equal Treatment: We affirm our commitment to providing equal treatment and opportunities to all individuals, irrespective of gender.

Discrimination on the basis of gender is strictly prohibited in all aspects of university life, including admissions, employment, academic programs, and extracurricular activities.

Prevention of Gender-Based Harassment and Violence: Aegean College has policies and procedures in place to prevent and address gender-based harassment, violence, and misconduct.

We promote a culture of respect and ensure that appropriate mechanisms are in place to investigate complaints and take corrective action when necessary.

Equal Pay and Benefits: Aegean College adheres to principles of equal pay for equal work, ensuring that women receive fair compensation and benefits commensurate with their qualifications and responsibilities.

We regularly review and adjust salary structures to address any gender-based pay gaps.

Support Services for Women: We provide support services and resources to address the unique needs and challenges faced by women, including counseling services, mentorship programs, and initiatives to promote work-life balance. The College maintains Counselling Services offered on an annual basis while different programmes in collaboration with NGOs run periodically to support specific groups.

Awareness and Training Programs: Aegean College conducts awareness and training programs to educate the community about gender equality, non-discrimination, and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment.

Training is provided to staff, faculty, and students to recognize and address biases and stereotypes that may contribute to discriminatory practices.

Reporting Mechanisms: Clear reporting mechanisms are established to allow individuals to report instances of discrimination confidently and without fear of retaliation.

Aegean College ensures that complaints are thoroughly investigated, and appropriate measures are taken to address and rectify any discriminatory behavior.

Regular Monitoring and Evaluation: We regularly monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of our non-discrimination policies through data collection, surveys, and feedback mechanisms.

This ongoing evaluation helps us identify areas for improvement and ensure the continued effectiveness of our policies.

By having a robust policy of non-discrimination against women, Aegean College actively contributes to the achievement of SDG 5.6.1, fostering an environment where women can participate fully and equally in all aspects of university life without facing discrimination based on gender.

Safe Spaces: LGBTQ+ Identities & Inclusion

The School of Human Sciences of Aegean College organises the Open Educational Conference with the topic “Safe Spaces: LGBTQ+ Identities & Inclusion” on Thursday, 29th September 2022 in the Lecture Hall of Aegean College, Panepistimiou 17 Str at the 7th floor with Ms. Chrysoula Iliopoulou speaking.

Full article here.

Εκπαιδευτική Ημερίδα: Ασφαλείς χώροι: ΛΟΑΤΚΙ ταυτότητες & συμπερίληψη.

5.6.3.

Aegean College is dedicated to supporting the participation of women in all aspects of university life, including during pregnancy and parenthood. We have established comprehensive maternity and paternity policies to ensure that individuals, irrespective of gender, can balance their academic and professional responsibilities with family life. This commitment aligns with the specific target 5.6.3 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Our maternity and paternity policies include the following key features:

Maternity Leave: We provide maternity leave as per the Greek legislation, ensuring that pregnant employees can take the necessary time off before and after childbirth without fear of job loss. The duration of maternity leave is designed to support the health and well-being of the mother and the newborn.

Flexible Work Arrangements: Aegean College encourages flexible work arrangements to accommodate the diverse needs of individuals during and after pregnancy. This may include options such as telecommuting, flexible working hours, or part-time schedules to help individuals maintain a balance between work and family responsibilities.

Supportive Work Environment: We foster a supportive work environment that values and respects the rights of employees to parenthood. Managers and colleagues are encouraged to create an understanding and supportive atmosphere for individuals going through pregnancy and parenthood.

Paternity Leave: In addition to maternity leave, we offer paternity leave according to the Greek legislation, to support fathers in actively participating in the early stages of their child’s life.

Parental Support Programs: Aegean College provides programs and resources to support parents, including access to parenting workshops, counseling services, and informational materials on balancing work and family life.

Lactation Support: We maintain collaborations with Maternity Hospitals which offer lactation support facilities for nursing mothers, including designated lactation rooms and flexible break times to accommodate breastfeeding needs. This is due to the collaborations we maintain for Clinical placements for our Programme in Midwifery studies which has been offered since 2012.

Inclusive Language and Culture: We promote an inclusive language and culture that recognizes and celebrates the diverse experiences of individuals during pregnancy and parenthood. This includes avoiding discriminatory language and practices that may create barriers for individuals with family responsibilities.

These policies contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment that enables women and men to fully participate in academic and professional activities while managing their family responsibilities. By implementing these measures, Aegean College actively supports the achievement of SDG 5.6.3, working towards gender equality and promoting a work-life balance for all members of Aegean Collegecommunity.

5.6.6.

Aegean College is committed to fostering the academic and professional development of female students, and we have implemented women’s mentoring schemes to support their growth. The mentoring programs are designed to provide guidance, support, and networking opportunities, contributing to the empowerment and success of female students. This commitment aligns with the specific target 5.6.6 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which emphasizes ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Characteristics of our women’s mentoring schemes include:

Participation Threshold: We actively encourage female students to participate in mentoring programs, aiming for a good representation of female student population.

Efforts are made to ensure inclusivity and accessibility, considering the diverse needs and interests of female students across various academic disciplines.

Experienced Mentors: The mentoring schemes involve experienced mentors, including faculty members, industry professionals, and alumni who can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Mentors are carefully selected based on their expertise and ability to support the personal and professional development of female students.

Personalized Guidance: The mentoring relationships are designed to be personalized, with mentors providing guidance on academic and career-related matters.

Discussions may cover topics such as goal-setting, career planning, overcoming challenges, and navigating the academic and professional landscape.

Networking Opportunities: The mentoring programs facilitate networking opportunities for female students, connecting them with mentors who can offer advice, share experiences, and provide introductions to relevant professional networks.

Skill Development Workshops: In addition to one-on-one mentoring, the programs may include skill development workshops and seminars to enhance the academic and professional skills of female students on different topics which may range from leadership skills to effective communication and negotiation.

Periodic Review and Feedback: Aegean College conducts periodic reviews of the mentoring programs to assess their effectiveness. Feedback is collected from both mentors and mentees to identify areas for improvement and ensure the continuous enhancement of the mentoring experience.

Promotion and Awareness: Aegean College actively promotes the mentoring schemes to ensure awareness among female students. Information about the benefits of participation and success stories of previous mentees is shared to encourage more female students to engage in the programs.

By implementing women’s mentoring schemes with the goal of at least 10% participation among female students, Aegean College is actively contributing to the achievement of SDG 5.6.6. These programs provide essential support for the personal and professional development of female students, fostering a culture of empowerment, mentorship, and gender equality within the academic community.

5.6.7.

Aegean College is dedicated to ensuring gender equality in education, and we actively measure and track the likelihood of women graduating compared to men. To address any identified gaps, we have implemented targeted schemes and interventions aimed at closing these gaps. This commitment aligns with the specific target 5.6.7 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Aegean College’s  measurement and intervention strategies include the following:

Gender-Disaggregated Data: We collect and analyze gender-disaggregated data on academic performance, retention rates, and graduation outcomes to identify any disparities between women and men.

Regular Monitoring and Reporting: Aegean College conducts regular monitoring and reporting on the progress of women and men in various academic programs.

Reports include detailed analyses of graduation rates, highlighting any trends or disparities that require attention.

Identification of Barriers: Through surveys, focus groups, and consultations, we identify potential barriers that may contribute to differences in graduation rates between women and men.

Barriers may include academic, social, or institutional factors, and efforts are made to address these comprehensively.

Targeted Support Programs: Based on the identified barriers, we implement targeted support programs to address the specific needs of female students.

Support programs may include academic tutoring, mentorship initiatives, career counseling, and interventions to enhance the overall university experience for women.

Gender-Inclusive Policies: Aegean College reviews and revises its policies to ensure they are gender-inclusive and do not inadvertently contribute to gender-based disparities in graduation rates.

Policies related to admissions, assessments, and academic support are assessed for their impact on gender equality.

Peer Mentorship and Support Networks: We establish peer mentorship programs and support networks to foster a sense of community among female students.

Peer mentorship provides an additional layer of support for academic and personal challenges, contributing to increased retention and graduation rates.

Communication and Awareness Campaigns: Aegean College engages in communication and awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of gender equality and to encourage an inclusive and supportive culture.

These campaigns aim to address stereotypes, biases, and other factors that may contribute to gender-based disparities in academic outcomes.

Continuous Evaluation and Improvement: The effectiveness of interventions is continuously evaluated, and adjustments are made based on feedback, emerging trends, and new research findings. This iterative process ensures that our strategies remain responsive to the evolving needs of our diverse student population.

By actively measuring, tracking, and implementing schemes to close any gender gaps in graduation rates, Aegean College is actively contributing to the achievement of SDG 5.6.7, working towards a more equitable and inclusive educational environment for all students, regardless of gender.

5.6.8

Aegean College is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the academic community. We have a comprehensive policy in place to protect individuals who report discrimination from educational or employment disadvantage. This commitment aligns with the specific target 5.6.8 under Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which focuses on ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights.

Aegean College’s  policy to protect individuals reporting discrimination include:

Confidential Reporting Mechanisms: Aegean College provides confidential reporting mechanisms for individuals who have experienced or witnessed discrimination. These mechanisms allow individuals to report incidents without fear of retaliation, ensuring their privacy and well-being.

Non-Retaliation Policy: Our policy explicitly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who report discrimination, harassment, or any violation of the university’s nondiscrimination policies. Retaliation is considered a serious offense and is subject to disciplinary action.

Awareness and Training: Aegean College conducts awareness and training programs to educate the academic community about the importance of reporting discrimination and the protections in place. Training emphasizes the non-retaliation policy and encourages a culture of mutual respect and support.

Support Services for Reporting Individuals: We provide support services, including counseling and guidance, to individuals who report discrimination.

These services aim to address the emotional and practical needs of individuals involved in the reporting process.

Anonymous Reporting Options: In addition to confidential reporting, Aegean College may offer anonymous reporting options to further protect the identity of individuals reporting discrimination. Anonymous reporting helps create an environment where individuals feel empowered to come forward without fear of exposure.

Investigation Procedures: Aegean College has established clear and fair investigation procedures to address reported incidents of discrimination.

Investigations are conducted promptly, thoroughly, and impartially, with a commitment to providing a safe and supportive resolution for all parties involved.

Disciplinary Actions: Disciplinary actions are taken against individuals found responsible for discriminatory behavior. These actions may include warnings, educational interventions, suspension, or termination, depending on the severity of the violation.

Communication of Policies: Aegean College ensures that its nondiscrimination policies, including protections against retaliation, are communicated clearly to all members of the academic community.

This information is available through various channels, including official university publications, websites, and orientation programs.

By implementing a policy that protects individuals reporting discrimination from educational or employment disadvantage, Aegean College actively contributes to the achievement of SDG 5.6.8. This policy reinforces our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity, accountability, and respect within the academic community.

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