Fostering Inclusion and Diversity at ESEI Business School: A Journey Towards Empowerment

At ESEI Business School in Barcelona, the need for more inclusion & diversity in the learning environment has been highlighted through a thought-provoking presentation conducted by master’s students during a cross-cultural management class. The students’ insights shed light on various aspects where improvements can be made to enhance inclusivity, encourage diversity, and create a stronger sense of belonging for all members of the ESEI community. This blog post delves into the key points raised by the students and explores potential strategies for addressing these issues.

Inclusion & Diversity: A Campus for All

1. Creating an Inclusive Environment:

• Addressing biases towards individuals with disabilities and diverse body sizes.
• Providing necessary resources and facilities to support all students.

2. Combating Gender Bias:

• Promoting gender disparity awareness in classrooms.
• Encouraging equal participation and opportunities for all genders.

3. Cultivating a Diverse Curriculum:

• Expanding beyond a focus on European culture and organizations.
• Incorporating a broader range of cultural perspectives and global knowledge.

Empowering Student Engagement and Choice

1. Collaborative Projects and Field Visits:

• Encouraging students’ involvement in project selection and decision-making.
• Facilitating visits to companies aligned with students’ interests and aspirations.

2. Strengthening Disciplinary Measures:

• Implementing effective punishments for rule violations to maintain a respectful community.
• Ensuring accountability and fairness in enforcing rules and policies.

Celebrating Inclusion & Diversity

1. Cultural Exchange and Events:

• Encouraging students to share their cultural heritage through food and attire.
• Organizing events that promote understanding and appreciation of diverse backgrounds.

2. Incorporating DEI Policies:

• Developing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy on the school’s website.
• Communicating the commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all.

Building Support Systems for Student Success

1. Office for Diversity and Inclusion:

• Establishing a dedicated space for students to seek guidance and support.
• Providing a safe environment for open dialogue and addressing concerns.

2. Scholarships and Clubs:

• Offering scholarships to students from underrepresented countries.
• Establishing clubs that focus on empowering and supporting women.

3. Enhancing Student Well-being:

• Promoting mental health and providing accessible counseling services.
• Creating channels for anonymous reporting and protection of whistleblowers.

Nurturing a Sense of Belonging

1. Faculty Diversity and Representation:

• Prioritizing the recruitment of professors from diverse backgrounds.
• Encouraging a faculty that reflects the international nature of the student body.

2. Multilingualism in Class Life:

• Incorporating multiple languages in classroom discussions and activities.
• Embracing linguistic diversity to foster a more inclusive learning environment.

The master’s presentation at ESEI Business School has brought attention to the crucial aspects of inclusivity, diversity, and belonging within the institution. By addressing the key points raised by the students, ESEI can take significant strides toward creating a more inclusive and empowering learning environment.

Embracing inclusivity, providing support systems, celebrating diversity, and fostering open communication are essential steps in ensuring that every student feels valued and can thrive within the ESEI community. By actively implementing these strategies, ESEI Business School can truly become a beacon of diversity, equity, and inclusion, setting an example for other educational institutions to follow suit.