Social engagement at the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt

Diversity Charter

The University of Applied Sciences Erfurt is dedicated to cultivating and developing the applied sciences and arts through practice-oriented teaching and research as well as professional development programs.
The primary task of the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt is high-quality teaching.
The University of Applied Sciences Erfurt promotes interdisciplinary cooperation within and outside the university. It supports regional development and promotes international collaboration.
It guarantees equal opportunities for women and men as well as for people with disabilities. It honours its responsibility towards future generations by observing the principles of sustainability in its work.
The University of Applied Sciences Erfurt has issued this mission statement to describe its fundamental goals and guidelines for its activities.

This mission statement was unanimously adopted by the Convention (known as the Senate since July 2008) of the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt at its 33rd meeting on 2 April 2008.

• Diversity as an opportunity

  The University of Applied Sciences Erfurt was one of the first universities to sign the "Diversity Charter". The Diversity Charter is an initiative supported by the German Chancellor Dr Angela Merkel to promote diversity, especially in companies, but also in public institutions. So far, only a few higher-education institutions - including the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt - have signed the agreement.

  Above all, the university recognizes the opportunities and benefits that arise from the diversity of human coexistence, in teaching, learning and working for our society and also specifically for this university. Universities should always be places that facilitate a climate of diversity. For only in such an environment can academic teaching and research thrive. There is also broad diversity within the disciplinary focus of the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt. Bringing together diverse perceptions and approaches shaped in traditional and new faculty cultures is a challenge our university faces on a daily basis.

  Furthermore, regardless of gender, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation or identity, each and every student and employee should be treated with respect, appreciation and integration within the teaching and research culture - and this is what the University of Applied Sciences Erfurt explicitly commits to by signing the charter.

• Text of the Diversity Charter

  Economic life in Germany is characterized by the diversity of modern society, influenced by globalization and demographic change. We can only be economically successful if we recognize and utilize the diverse resources we have, i.e. the diversity of our workforce and the various needs of our customers and business partners. A diversity of employees with a variety of skills and talents opens up opportunities for innovative and creative solutions.

  By implementing the Diversity Charter in our organization, we aim to create a working environment free of prejudice. All members of staff should be appreciated - irrespective of their gender, race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or beliefs, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity. Recognizing and cultivating this diverse potential can greatly benefit our organization.

  By creating a climate of acceptance and mutual trust, we aim to have a positive impact on our reputation with business partners and clients in Germany and throughout the world.

  Under this Charter we will

  • foster a corporate culture marked by mutual respect and appreciation. We will create the necessary conditions for managers and employees to recognise, share and live out these values. This demands a particular commitment on the part of managers and supervisors.
  • review our personnel procedures to ensure that they do justice to the diverse abilities and talents of all employees and to our expectations of performance. 
  • recognise the diversity of society inside and outside the organisation, value the potential contained within and use it to the benefit of the organisation.
  • make the implementation of the Charter the subject of internal and external dialogue.
  • inform the public annually about our activities and the progress towards the promotion of diversity and recognition.
  • inform our employees about diversity and include them in the implementation of the Charter.

  We are convinced that by embracing and valuing diversity, we can have a positive impact on society in Germany.