The project "Mit Wissen [mehr] Vielfalt schaffen ("Creating [More] Diversity through Knowledge") at Europa-Universität Flensburg (EUF) is supported by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) within the initiative "Diversity at German Universities". As a result, the Equal Opportunities Area at EUF will receive 49,000 euros for the period June 2023 to March 2024. The funding will be used to integrate two new, overarching building blocks into the university's diversity concept.

Subproject 1 will design and develop a differentiated diversity monitoring system to create an inventory of the specific characteristics and diversity needs of EUF staff and students. This baseline data will contribute to the strategic management of the university from a diversity perspective and to a better evaluation of existing policies.

Subproject 2 will design and develop a service for digital information and support, one that is specifically tailored to the needs of professors. With this new e-learning resource, which goes beyond the existing coaching offers, the university seeks to give professors and other managers the knowledge and tools they need to carry out leadership tasks in a professional, diversity-conscious way.

Project events will give affected groups and representatives from Flensburg community, business, and public administration the opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences. "Recognizing diversity is an important factor for the innovative strength of our location. Through this project, we want to raise awareness at the university and the local urban community that the diversity skills of managers greatly contribute to attractive working conditions," explains Martina Spirgatis from EUF's Equal Opportunity Area.

The project "Creating [More] Diversity through Knowledge" was selected in an independent review process as one of 33 projects to receive funding of 25,000 or up to 50,000 euros in the coming winter semester.  

On September 1, 2021, the German Rectors' Conference (Hochschulrektorenkonferenz - HRK) launched the "Diversity at German Universities" initiative, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). The project aims to help German universities further develop holistic diversity concepts. By funding university projects and promoting cross-project dialogue and exchange, it seeks to promote diversity at universities on a national level. To receive funding for individual diversity projects, HRK member universities were invited to submit concepts that contribute to the goals of the initiative.

"With this initiative, we can provide universities with targeted support in implementing diversity measures tailored to their specific needs," said Prof. Dr. Walter Rosenthal, President of the German Rectors' Conference (Hochschulrektorenkonferenz - HRK). "Only through a holistic approach to diversity that encompasses all levels of higher education can effective measures be taken to combat structural discrimination and create a university culture that promotes and values diversity," Rosenthal said.

An interactive map provides an overview of the funded projects.