The University Empowering Women's Future

Izmir University of Economics (IUE), which has undertaken numerous exemplary projects in the fields of gender equality, discrimination, and combating violence against women, received an award from Istanbul. IUE was honored with the award, ‘University Empowering Women's Future’, in the ‘Women Leaders Panel and Awards’, organized in strategic partnership with Koç University Gender and Women's Studies Research and Application Center (KOÇ-KAM) and Ekonomi Gazetesi (Newspaper). Preparing a strategic plan for gender equality across the University, conducting an inventory of all related activities, and widely incorporating gender studies into educational programs to increase awareness among young people, Izmir University of Economics was recognized for its successful efforts.

WE TOOK EXEMPLARY STEPS

Attending the award ceremony in Istanbul, Prof. Dr. Gönül Dinç Horasan, Director of IUE Gender and Women's Studies Research and Application Center (EKOKAM), stated that they would continue their work based on societal benefit. Prof. Dr. Horasan said, “In the field of gender equality, we not only develop projects within the University but also take steps to increase collaboration with other institutions. In the last semester, we organized a workshop, bringing together the directors of women's centers operating within universities. This workshop was an exemplary step towards increasing collaboration. In addition, we initiated a comprehensive inventory study within the University. We systematically identified the steps taken so far and potential projects for the future, establishing a solid foundation. We celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th every year by sharing our work with academics working in this field through workshops on campus. These efforts played a decisive role in receiving such a meaningful award. Being honored with such an award is indescribable happiness.”

WE CONTINUE TO IMPLEMENT THE PLAN

Emphasizing that they have prepared the ‘Gender Equality Plan’, aiming to increase awareness against violence and discrimination towards women, and have started implementing this plan throughout the University, Prof. Dr. Horasan said, “The plan covers five key areas that are ‘work-life balance and culture’, ‘balanced gender participation in management and decision-making mechanisms,' 'gender equality in recruitment and career development processes’, ‘gender dimension in course content and research’, and ‘measures against sexual harassment and gender-based violence’. We continue to organize informative meetings for students and employees on the importance of gender equality. We will conduct research on gender-related issues within the University and prepare reports. We have encouraged and will continue to encourage more active participation of women in decision-making processes within the institution”.