UNIUD: Inclusion in Action: Overcoming Borders and Biases with the ACROSS Alliance

First Round Table of Task 1.4 – Inclusion, Gender, Equality and Diversity

The event took place within the framework of Task 1.4 “Inclusion, Gender, Equality and Diversity”, coordinated by the University of Udine, under the leadership of Professor Laura Casella and Dr. Stefania Facchin.

The round table aimed to promote a culture of inclusion, highlight the value of diversity, and foster dialogue on the policies and good practices implemented by the universities in the ACROSS network. The session drew an average attendance of 48 participants, reflecting genuine interest in the topic.

Moderated by Alexandre Tournie (University of Perpignan), the session featured firsthand accounts from seven university members, who shared their personal experiences regarding accessibility, anti-discrimination efforts, and the pursuit of gender equality.

Overall, the feedback was highly positive regarding the policies, approaches, and services provided by the universities. Many praised the institutional efforts in terms of financial, legislative, and administrative support, as well as the accessibility of facilities. Above all, participants highlighted the crucial role of peer support and community spirit among friends and student groups.

One particularly moving contribution came from Germina Alina Cosma (University of Craiova), a professor with a disability, who shared:“Sometimes you’re shy to ask for help, but you need to push yourself beyond your limits and believe in yourself. There are many ways to keep studying. Disability can become an ability! I’ve been lucky, as we’ve been working with people with disabilities since 2004.”

Mattia Fioravanti from the University of Udine presented their experience in implementing the “alias career” protocol in 2022, designed to support individuals undergoing gender transition or seeking protection of their identity.

Another appreciated reflection came from Saptashwa Bhattacharyya, a postdoctoral researcher in the Center for Astrophysics and Cosmology at the University of Nova Gorica :“A small group of students and we’re all connected. It’s wonderful.” Bhattacharyya is originally from India, obtained PhD in Japan and now works in Slovenia. He shared with the participants his personal experiences and challenges related to inclusion and acceptance of diversity.

The ten universities that make up the ACROSS alliance are all medium-sized institutions, deeply rooted in their local contexts and often located on Europe’s geographical borders. They are united by a shared belief: we are stronger together.

They may not be the biggest or the most well-known universities, but their size and proximity to people, ideas, and real-world challenges are what make them strong.

This event marks just the beginning of the journey. But the direction is clear: beyond borders. Together.