East London university to take part in scheme to tackle racial inequalities in higher education

The University of East London is taking part in a new scheme to tackle racial inequalities in higher education.

UEL, one of the country’s most diverse and inclusive universities, is at the forefront of a national trial of the Equality Challenge Unit’s race equality charter mark. Almost 80 per cent of its students come from an ethnic minority background.

The university will be working alongside other institutions such as Birkbeck College, LSE, UCL and Kings College to improve the progression, success and representation of ethnic minority staff and students.

Students at UEL already benefit from the innovative Noon Centre for Equality and Diversity in Business. The Centre provides a forum for engagement, support and research in workplace diversity. It provides a platform for engaging and supporting students into industry, career development and self-employment.

Dusty Amroliwala, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer, said: “We believe strongly in equality and diversity at the UEL but we know there is still a long way to go before higher education can say it is truly equal and diverse. That’s why the UEL is 100% behind the national charter mark scheme. It will help us remain even more focused and committed to such an important area for staff and students. All of us will be judged by our actions in making sure we represent the communities we engage and so enhance the student and staff experience.”

Following the trial, it is intended that the charter mark will be open to all higher education institutions in the UK by 2015. For more information go to ecu.ac.uk