The Department of Philology at the University of Patras is committed to fostering an academic environment in which every member of its community—students, academic, research and administrative staff, as well as visitors—is treated with respect, dignity and equality.
As a department dedicated to the study of language, literature and culture, we recognise that the humanities are inherently connected with the acceptance of diversity, the coexistence and dialogue of different perspectives and interpretations, and the critical examination of stereotypes and all forms of categorisation. The diversity of experiences, identities and approaches enriches both academic and social life and contributes creatively to the production and dissemination of knowledge.
The Department of Philology actively embraces and supports the University of Patras’ policies promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. Creating a safe, accessible and inclusive academic environment is a shared responsibility of all members of the University community. Equality, diversity and inclusion are not only fundamental values of our University; they are essential prerequisites for the free pursuit of knowledge, meaningful scholarly dialogue, and an academic community that is open to everyone.
Support Services and Useful Resources
The University of Patras provides a range of structures, services and educational resources that actively support equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Committee on Gender Equality & Combating Discrimination (CGECD): An advisory body of the University that promotes equality and contributes to the prevention and addressing of discrimination, sexism, harassment and all forms of exclusion.
- Office for Gender Equality & Combating Discrimination: Supports the work of the Committee, organises awareness-raising and information activities, and provides guidance on issues relating to equality and equal treatment.
- Equal Access Unit: Provides services that facilitate the full and equitable participation of students with disabilities and/or special educational needs in academic life.
- Centre for Psychological and Counselling Support (Mental Care): Offers free psychological and counselling services to students of the University of Patras.
- Student Advocate: Acts as a mediator in resolving issues arising in students’ interactions with University services and governing bodies, thereby contributing to the safeguarding of legality, transparency and good administration.
Educational Resources and Training
- A Short Guide to Gender, Gender Identity and Sexuality, developed by the University of Patras’ Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (KEDIMA) (author: Anna Roussou, Professor, Department of Philology, University of Patras).
- UniDiversity Guide to Inclusive Practices for LGBTQI+ People, a European educational resource bringing together recommendations and examples for promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in higher education. The guide is made available through the University’s Committee on Gender Equality as a useful reference resource.
- Guide to the Use of Non-Sexist Language in Administrative Documents, recommended by the Committee on Gender Equality and Combating Discrimination as a practical tool for promoting language free from gender stereotypes.
Language, Discourse and Inclusion
Language is one of the Department of Philology’s principal fields of study, as well as a fundamental means through which academic and social life are shaped. Linguistic choices are never neutral; they both reflect and shape perceptions, relationships and ways of understanding the world. Likewise, discourse can either reinforce or challenge stereotypes and exclusion.
The Department of Philology encourages the use of language that demonstrates respect for all individuals and follows the Committee on Gender Equality & Combating Discrimination‘s guidelines on the use of non-sexist and inclusive language.
For further information on the University of Patras’ policies and initiatives relating to equality, diversity and inclusion, as well as the available guidance documents and support services, please visit the respective webpages of the above University bodies.
