Contemporary study programs, affordable tuition fees and abundant job opportunities are just a few reasons why Germany remains the world’s third most popular destination for students around the world.
In the last 10 years, Germany’s international student enrollment has increased by 52% with the highest numbers coming from non-EU countries, such as India, China, Turkey, Iran and Russia. The data not only strengthens the country’s image as an immigrant-friendly society but also reflects its evolving demographic diversity.
At the forefront of this effort to nurture an inclusive environment in schools is the prestigious Heidelberg University, which was founded in 1386 and is the country’s oldest university. It established the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee (DEIC), which is responsible for promoting different cultural identities in its community through policy changes.
“We want everyone to feel safe, valued, respected, responsible, and that they belong and can contribute,” said Heidelberg University Chief Human Resource Officer Dr. Leslie Erwin.
So, the university hosts various student organizations, like The Ubuntu Black Cultural House and The Black Student Union, which celebrate the identity of African-American students and help them establish a strong presence on campus. Meanwhile, The Berg Latinx Unidos highlights issues unique to Latin-American students.
To encourage representation of other ethnic minorities, DEIC provides a four-year renewable scholarship to students from underrepresented groups. Known as The Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship, assistance is given to students who exhibit academic potential and a strong commitment to contribute to society.
If its objective of fostering diversity is to succeed, Heidelberg University is aware that it should create an environment wherein the integration of students from minority backgrounds is easy. The World Student Union organizes various cultural and educational activities to expose students to different cultures and perspectives.
Other initiatives to encourage diversity and inclusivity include the teaching of courses in women and gender studies, multicultural literature, gender theory, multicultural psychology, psychology of women, and gender development.
