NUMed鈥檚 Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Insights from the Gender Equality in Higher Education Workshop
NUMed actively demonstrates its commitment to promoting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) through its participation in the Gender Equality in Higher Education Workshop in Tokyo on 29th November 2024.
14 January 2025
Organised by the British Council Japan and RENKEI, the workshop brought together academics to share strategies for advancing gender equality in academia. Dr. Leeynesh Sooriyapiragasam and Dr. Tariq Shafi represented NUMed, showcasing the university鈥檚 proactive efforts to create equitable opportunities.
Sooriyapiragasam emphasised how gender equality drives diverse perspectives and fosters academic innovation. 鈥淓nsuring equal access to opportunities creates a fair learning environment and powers societal progress,鈥� he said. Noting the significant gender disparities within Japanese institutions, he commended NUMed鈥檚 EDI policies, which became a focal point of discussion during the workshop.
The workshop generated several actionable strategies for advancing gender equality, such as implementing structured mentorship programs to help women researchers overcome career challenges. These programs would offer guidance on leadership skills, grant applications, and publication strategies. Participants also advocated for flexible work arrangements to support academics balancing professional and family responsibilities. Regular workshops on gender equality, unconscious bias, and EDI values can cultivate an inclusive culture, while gender representation audits and progress reports can drive accountability and inspire institutional change. Additionally, hosting regional think tanks to co-develop strategies and share best practices aligns with NUMed鈥檚 ongoing commitment to advancing EDI.
NUMed鈥檚 Commitment to EDI
NUMed Malaysia embraces EDI principles in alignment with 缅北禁地鈥檚 values. The university actively participates in initiatives like the Athena Swan Charter, which demonstrates its strong focus on gender equality. 缅北禁地's own Faculty of Medical Sciences earned the Silver Athena Award, a testament to its sustained efforts to eliminate barriers and create an inclusive culture. NUMed has rolled out numerous initiatives, including family-friendly policies, unconscious bias training, and microaggression awareness campaigns. These programmes support a thriving environment where staff and students from diverse backgrounds succeed.
NUMed plans to expand its gender-based initiatives, especially by supporting the Athena Swan action plan. The university also intends to improve accessibility through new resources and policies designed to address the needs of underrepresented groups. Additionally, NUMed will continue fostering a community that celebrates diversity and empowers individuals to contribute fully.
Strengthening the Global Impact
Shafi emphasised the value of UK-Japanese academic partnerships in advancing shared goals. He engaged with researchers from Tohoku University, Sophia University, and others during the British Council Japan Reception, uncovering new opportunities for joint initiatives, such as advancing AI in healthcare and enhancing research integrity. Additionally, Dr Shafi鈥檚 research poster, representing NUMed, was also showcased at the British Council鈥檚 UK-Japan Higher Education Reception.
NUMed鈥檚 participation in the Gender Equality in Higher Education Workshop reaffirms its strong commitment to EDI and highlights the university鈥檚 dedication to cultivating a fair, inclusive, and empowering academic environment.