Equal Turku UAS
Diversity is a richness in our Turku UAS community. All individuals are equal regardless of, for example, gender, age, physical characteristics, nationality, language, religion, belief, health status, sexual orientation, or other personal reasons. Every student and employee should feel they receive equal treatment.
In addition to considering statutory requirements in equality, accessibility and gender equality planning, we focus on the climate and ways in which we can promote the well-being, openness, and sense of belonging within our community. Promoting equality and accessibility is the duty of the entire university community – each of us, both individually and collectively.
Turku UAS’ Community Etiquette
In our university of applied sciences, we follow freedom of science, research, and art. We can address all societal themes and phenomena in our activities. We follow the principles of community etiquette in all interactions within the community in our spaces, events, and activities, whether physically, socially, or online.
1. We respect each student’s and employee’s peace, privacy, and personal physical and mental space.
2. We do not tolerate discrimination or inappropriate behaviour. We have a procedure in place to address discrimination and inappropriate behaviour. We encourage our community members to report any discrimination or inappropriate behaviour they encounter. Instructions can be found on our intranet:
- for students
- for staff (requires login).
3. We recognize the diversity within our community and appreciate individual differences. We see diversity as an opportunity to learn.
4. We treat each person as an individual. We do not make unnecessary assumptions based on, for example, external appearance.
5. We use non-discriminatory language. We do not use racist or stigmatizing expressions based on gender, disability, or health in our speech, actions, or behaviour. We avoid stereotypes and offensive humour.
6. We communicate politely and respectfully.
7. We ensure that everyone has the space to be seen, heard, and valued. We listen to others and strive to be open to new perspectives.
8. We value each other’s time and follow the agreed schedules.
9. We aim to discuss views and opinions in a constructive and respectful manner. We recognize that invoking freedom of speech does not justify offensive language.
10. When photographing or filming videos outside of public spaces, we ensure it is accepted by everyone involved. We do not share or publish photos or videos without permission. At Turku UAS, the areas that are open to public are considered public spaces.
11. Each of us ensures through our actions that our community is a harassment- and discrimination-free zone, where prevails a good professional climate which we have created together.
Equal Turku UAS Plan
Our equality and non-discrimination work is described in the Equal Turku UAS 2025 – 2026 plan. This plan describes the practical measures by which we promote and implement equal practices and equal study and work environments. We also assess the current state of equality and review the implementation and results of the measures recorded in the previous plan.
The Equal Turku UAS plan has been reviewed by the Cooperation Advisory Board and the Board of Turku UAS. Our organization’s leaders and management are committed to the plan and to the goals and measures described in the plan, with which we aim towards the objectives outlined in the plan.
The main themes for the 2025-2026:
1. We support the study ability of students
2. We operate in a multicultural environment
3. We promote a good professional climate
In addition,
4. we continue to advance and develop accessibility, and
5. we ensure gender equality and the consideration of gender aspects.
See the plan and measures with which we aim to promote these development targets:
Accessibility
Our new work and other environments are designed in accordance with currently valid accessibility legislation. All of our current premises and digital services are not yet fully accessible.
- More information on the accessibility of our campuses can be found on the campuses pages.
- The accessibility of our digital services is described in the accessibility statements.
The physical, mental and social framework for teaching and studying shall be such that everyone can, regardless of their characteristics, study equally with others.
- Possible points of view to be taken into consideration in the implementation of our education have been described in the description of the degree programme or course in the Studyinfo, our website or the study guide.
- See also: Requirements on health and functional capacity
A student recognized as having studying or learning difficulties can apply for reasonable special arrangements for their studies on a case-by-case basis. Conditions requiring special arrangements include dyslexia, and a physical or psychological impediment. However, the objectives and level of requirements in accordance with the curriculum and implementation plan are the same for all students, and the individual arrangements enable equal opportunities to reach the objectives.
For more information on the individual arrangements of degree education, please contact the study guidance counsellor.
From the employees’ point of view, the goals of our community’s operations have been opened up in the principles of excellent work. The principles also describe topics related to equality and accessibility.
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Case
A visually impaired student’s report has made a difference
Sometimes even small, everyday observations can lead to big changes. When Lara Febles was introduced to the accessibility of learning spaces at Turku University of Applied Sciences, hardly anyone could have guessed what would follow. Now Turku University of Applied Sciences also has its own equality expert. – As a visually impaired student, I can bring things to light that are not necessarily noticed in the everyday life of higher education institutions, Febles tells.
More information
Ask more about our work on equality from the DEI advisor or HR advisor.
If you are considering questions related to the accessibility of a particular degree programme, please contact the study guidance counselor.
