Equity and Inclusion in Higher Education: Strategies for Ensuring Access and Success

Abstract

Equity and inclusion in higher education are critical for fostering diverse and just learning environments. Some children are particularly at risk of not attending or completing school – those from poor families; those in remote rural communities; girls; children infected with or affected by HIV; working children or those with disabilities; children from ethnic or other minority groups and those in countries affected by conflict or natural disaster. Gender inequality is a cross-cutting issue in every type of educational disadvantage. Equity requires securing all children’s rights to education, and their rights within and through education to realize their potential and aspirations. It also requires implementing and institutionalizing arrangements that help ensure all children can achieve these aims. Inclusion requires responding to the diversity of needs among all learners, through increasing participation in learning, cultures, and communities, and reducing exclusion from and within education. It involves changes in content, approaches, structures, and strategies, driven by a common vision that covers all children and the conviction that it is the responsibility of the regular system to educate all of them. This paper examines the challenges and barriers to equity and inclusion and proposes strategies for institutions to implement policies and practices that promote fairness, diversity, and belonging. The discussion highlights policy recommendations, institutional reforms, and best practices to ensure equitable access and success for all students.

Key words: LRE, STEM, DEI, RTE, SEDGs, marginalized groups etc.