Reflecting on the Success of the Second Symposium on Gender Equality in Academia

The Second Symposium on Gender Equality for an Inclusive University and Society, held on November 15, 2024, at the University of Primorska, was a pivotal event in advancing discussions about gender equality, equity, and inclusivity in academia and beyond. Organized as part of an EU-supported initiative, this symposium brought together experts, academics, and practitioners to explore strategies for fostering gender-sensitive and inclusive environments.

A Packed Agenda

The day began with welcome addresses by Prof. Dr. Klavdija Kutnar, Rector of UP, and Prof. Dr. Irena Lazar, Dean of UP FHŠ, setting the tone for the day’s discussions. The symposium was structured into three focused panels:

1. Genders at Universities

This session addressed the role of universities in shaping gender equality. Highlights included:

• Prof. Dr. Vlado Kotnik’s examination of gender studies as a litmus test for university culture.
• Assist. Prof. Dr. Marko Gavriloski Tretjak’s review of microaggressions faced by LGBT+ students.
• Insights from AGRIGEP Universities by a collaborative team, showcasing stakeholder mapping as a tool for advancing equality.

2. Genders in Everyday Life

Moderated by Prof. Dr. Alenka Janko Spreizer, this panel highlighted everyday gendered experiences, including:

• Assist. Prof. Dr. Irena Weber’s exploration of geographic and cultural intersections in gender perceptions.
• Sandi Horvat’s discussion on challenges faced by Roma women and LGBTQ+ communities.
• A compelling look at the role of misinformation in undermining gender equality by Prof. Dr. Štefan Bojnec and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Patricia Blatnik.

3. Genders in Institutions

The final panel delved into institutional frameworks and policies, featuring:

• Dr. Maxime Forest’s insights from the RESET project on redesigning scientific excellence.
• A content analysis of gender equality plans in Central Eastern Europe by Prof. Dr. Katalin Tardos and colleagues.
• Reflections on advancing equality within agricultural and life sciences, presented by researchers from AGRIGEP.

Engaging Discussions and Takeaways

Participants engaged in vibrant discussions throughout the day, with sessions culminating in meaningful dialogue about the future of inclusivity in academia. The symposium underscored the importance of intersectionality, addressing systemic inequalities, and fostering a culture of collaboration in driving change.

A Step Toward Change

Co-financed by the Republic of Slovenia and the European Union – NextGenerationEU, this symposium marked a significant step in the broader project on reforming higher education for a resilient transition to Society 5.0. Its outcomes will inform future policies and practices, ensuring universities are at the forefront of creating equitable societies.

As we reflect on this event, it is evident that advancing gender equality is not just a goal but an ongoing process requiring collective effort and innovation. The symposium’s success exemplifies how academia can serve as a beacon for societal transformation.