Beyond the plan: from tool to community change at the University of Gdańsk

MINDtheGEPs is driving a wave of community empowerment for gender equality at the University of Gdańsk. Anna Jurkowska-Zeidler is Vice-rector for international cooperation. According to her, the University’s gender equality plan is “an important but small part of living in community.” Here, the plan is part of a broader goal. By integrating the gender equality plan with other initiatives at the university, the MINDtheGEPs team in Gdańsk is using the actions and tools developed in the project as stepping stones towards real change.

The University is engaging people from different projects to build bridges and connections. According to Anna Jurkowska-Zeidler, governance frameworks like a gender equality plan is not just a compliance measure. They are essential components for creating an inclusive culture.

Through the MINDtheGEPs project, the University of Gdańsk has demonstrated how targeted actions can drive community change, creating a more equal academic space for all. According to Anna Jurkowska-Zeidler, the level of engagement was unexpected. Students and young researchers are eager to make a difference, but the values need to be manifested through action. The result? The list of initiatives, like mentoring projects and storytelling sessions that celebrate successful women, is long. And the real value is in the network. By encouraging collaboration among women, the university is creating a supportive environment.

According to Anna Jurkowska-Zeidler, gender equality cannot be forced. It requires a community with genuine involvement not to fail. Here, participation is the key to ensure that everyone feels invested in the outcomes.

Through the MINDtheGEPs project, the University of Gdańsk is demonstrating that change can come from within the community, empowering individuals to advocate for gender equality in meaningful ways.

By Josepine Fernow & Fanny Klingvall