Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

Sakarya University has an active, institution-wide Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policy and governance framework that applies to academic staff, administrative staff, students and the wider university community. The University demonstrates a systematic commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion through publicly articulated policies, institutional structures and implementation mechanisms that ensure equitable access, prevent discrimination and support underrepresented groups across all operations.

 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy:

• Sakarya University strictly prohibits discrimination based on legally protected characteristics such as age, gender, disability, race, religion or belief, refugee and asylum seeker status, pregnancy, and maternity.
• The university takes various measures to promote diversity and inclusivity, including education, awareness-raising activities, ensuring accessibility, and implementing fair recruitment and promotion policies.
• Sakarya University organizes and supports seminars, workshops, and events to increase understanding of diversity and enhance an inclusive culture among its community members. 

 

Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy

• Non-Discrimination Statement: Sakarya University strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics, including but not limited to age, gender, disability, race, religion, pregnancy, and nationality.
• Reporting Procedure: The university provides clear channels for reporting incidents of discrimination and harassment. Students, faculty, staff, and other members of the university community are encouraged to report any incidents to designated individuals or offices, either formally or informally. They are assured confidentiality and protection against retaliation.
• Investigation and Response: Upon receiving a report, the university will promptly investigate all allegations of discrimination and harassment in a fair and impartial manner. Disciplinary action, including termination of employment or expulsion, will be taken against individuals found to have engaged in such behavior.
• Education and Training: The university is committed to raising awareness and preventing discrimination and harassment through education and training programs for students, faculty, and staff. These programs will provide information on the university's policies, procedures, and resources available for addressing discrimination and harassment, as well as promoting a culture of respect, inclusivity, and diversity.

 

Human Resources Policy:​

• To approach human resources as a corporate value by planning the medium and long-term human resources needs in line with the mission and vision of the institution, to evaluate the performance in order to ensure personal development, to provide the necessary support and to offer development opportunities.
• To implement multi-faceted communication with all employee groups within the understanding of governance.
• To make and carry out training and development plans by considering the principles of equality of opportunity and inclusiveness in line with corporate objectives and individual development needs.
• Based on performance evaluation results in personal development, promotion, empowerment, appreciation and recognition practices.
• To provide a reliable and healthy work environment for all personnel with occupational health and safety practices.

 

Institutional Implementation and Governance

The implementation of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) principles at Sakarya University is supported through dedicated institutional units and coordinated governance mechanisms, including:

• Accessible Life & Support Coordination, ensuring academic, social and spatial accessibility for students with disabilities and other accessibility needs
• Women’s Studies Research Centre, supporting gender equality research, training and awareness-raising activities
• Community Engagement and Sustainability Coordination Office, integrating inclusion, social wellbeing and sustainability into institutional policies and practices
• International Office, supporting international students and students with refugee or displaced backgrounds
• Erasmus+ Programme Coordination Office, implementing the Erasmus+ Inclusion Support Framework for disadvantaged and underrepresented groups

Through these institutional structures, EDI principles are systematically embedded across education, employment, international mobility, research activities and campus life.

 

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Sakarya University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy is grounded in national legislation, ethical principles and institutional values. The University continuously reviews, monitors and strengthens its EDI practices through structured monitoring mechanisms, stakeholder engagement processes, regular training activities and inclusive programmes, ensuring equal opportunity, non-discrimination and respect for human dignity across the university community.

 

Institutional Commitment

Sakarya University demonstrates a fully institutionalised and systematic commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and human rights. The University ensures equitable access to education, campus life, international mobility and professional development opportunities for all members of the University community.

This commitment is anchored in national legislation and the Ethical Conduct Principles for Higher Education Institutions, guaranteeing fairness, transparency, confidentiality and respect for human dignity across all academic and administrative processes.

Official policy link:

https://saudek.sakarya.edu.tr/en/icerik/8069/3245/kurumsal-degerler