SEA-EU Alliance members gather in Malta for International Week on Equity and Inclusion

The SEA-EU Office at the University of Malta hosted members of the SEA-EU Alliance at the Valletta Campus of the University of Malta between 17 and 19 February for an inspiring International Week dedicated to Equity and Inclusion. The three-day event brought together academics, administrators and institutional leaders from partner universities to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and strengthen their collective commitment to building more inclusive and equitable communities.

The event opened with a welcome address by UM Rector, Prof. Alfred J. Vella, who underscored the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration in advancing equity within higher education. He highlighted the value of being part of a transnational alliance that places equality and diversity at the heart of its mission.

A panel discussion on Policy and Practice: EDI in Higher Education amid Global Socio-Political Shifts was chaired by Pro-Rector for Student & Staff Affairs and Outreach, Prof. Carmen Sammut.

Throughout the programme, University of Malta academics delivered a series of thought-provoking presentations addressing equity and inclusion from diverse perspectives.

Dr Ben Matthews explored the concept of Sign Languages and “Deaf Gain” within university communities, reframing deafness as a source of cultural and linguistic richness rather than deficit. Dr Damian Spiteri examined the intersection of artificial intelligence, human rights and inclusion from a European standpoint, prompting discussion on ethical innovation and social responsibility.

Dr Elizabeth Mullen focused on media representations of diversity, equity and inclusion in classroom settings, encouraging critical engagement with the narratives that shape educational spaces. Dr Therese Comodini Cachia addressed the protection of the right to education and the importance of ensuring its enjoyment without discrimination.

Intercultural dynamics were further explored by Dr Zoi Arvantidou, who spoke about dress in mobility contexts and the cultural meanings embedded in clothing. Ms Nadia Abdilla and Ms Martina Balagna examined ways of fostering a sense of belonging at the University, highlighting the role and scope of an Equity Office in institutional transformation.

The University’s Committee on Race and Ethnic Affairs (CREA) was presented by Ms Ruth Bellizzi and Dr Omar N’Shea, who explained its purpose and ongoing initiatives. Meanwhile, Ms Justine Somerville and Ms Kirsty Azzopardi discussed the use of the Maltese language within a university setting, emphasising linguistic inclusion as a key dimension of accessibility.

Pedagogical innovation featured prominently in the programme. Prof. Daniel Manzoni De Almeida presented on science teaching through the lens of critical pedagogy, advocating for more reflective and socially responsive approaches to education. Prof. JosAnn Cutajar outlined the work of the Gender Equality and Sexual Diversity Committee, detailing its efforts to promote fairness and representation across campus life.

Accessibility and support services were highlighted by Prof. Paul Bartolo and Ms Marchita Mangiafico, who presented the aims and strategy of the ACCESS – Disability Support Unit. Concluding the series of talks, Prof. Stavros Assimakopoulos delivered a compelling address on hate speech, examining its societal impact and the responsibility of educational institutions to confront it.

The International Week reaffirmed the SEA-EU Alliance’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive language. By creating a space for open dialogue and shared learning, the event empowered participants to take meaningful, actionable steps toward fostering more inclusive university environments and, ultimately, a more equitable society.