Equality Challenge Unit (ECU) is a UK-based organisation that works to support equality and diversity for staff and students in higher education institutions. They support universities and colleges to build an inclusive culture that values the benefits of diversity, to remove barriers to progression and success for all staff and students, and to challenge and change unfair practices that disadvantage individuals or groups.
The Athena Swan charter launched in the Republic of Ireland in early 2015. The
extension of the charter to Ireland was made possible through funding from the Higher Education Authority (HEA).
The objective of the Athena Swan Ireland 2021 charter framework is to support higher education institutions, academic departments, and professional units in impactful and sustainable gender equality work and to build capacity for evidence-based equality work across the equality grounds enshrined in Irish legislation. There is a broader objective to create more inclusive and vibrant teaching and working environments for all students and staff.
UCD School of Medicine commits to the principles of the Athena Swan Ireland Charter as outlined in this letter: Commitment to the Athena Swan Ireland Charter Principles
UCD holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award. This award recognises that the institution has a solid foundation for eliminating gender bias and developing an inclusive culture that values all staff.
In September 2019 the School of Medicine was awarded a Departmental Bronze Athena SWAN award. Bronze Department awards recognise that in addition to institution-wide policies, the Department is working to promote gender equality and to identify and address challenges particular to the Department and discipline. A four-year action plan was put in place to address the challenges that exist to promote gender equality in the School of Medicine.
In 2023, the School officially received its Athena Swan Bronze renewal award.