University builds multicultural harmony

Events

Australia's Harmony Day last month took special significance at the University of Adelaide with the launch of its Multicultural Action Plan.

As part of its Harmony Day celebrations, the University outlined its commitment to cultural diversity and its plans to continue to build an inclusive environment for all staff, students and visitors.

"We are committed to a culturally rich and diverse staff and student body," said University Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha. "We want an inclusive and respectful environment for all and we will deliver services and facilities that meet the diverse needs of our ever-changing cultural community.

"Embracing multiculturalism requires more than words - it demands action."

Professor McWha said the University wanted to build an academic and professional workforce that reflected the diversity of the community.

"Harmony Day is a celebration of Australia's cultural diversity and heritage," said Professor McWha.

"Similarly, the University wants to show how much it values its own unique cultural diversity.

"We are launching our Multicultural Action Plan as an important new step in our commitment to meeting the needs of our multicultural community and providing an environment where all cultures become part of one broader University culture."

The Multicultural Action Plan aims to:

• foster an inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff and visitors;
  
• establish a responsive, coordinated and systematic approach to the culturally diverse needs of staff and students;
  
• embrace the contribution of people from all backgrounds; acknowledging their rich cultural diversity;
  
• attract and retain the best staff and students from culturally diverse backgrounds.

The University community will work together in four main areas: student and staff engagement; community partnerships; fostering inclusiveness and equity; and shaping the physical environment.

Story by Robyn Mills