Who are the members of the Advisory Committee on Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education and Research, and what do they do? This time, we would like to introduce Steven Arisz. Steven Arisz is a research scientist in the Department of Chemistry at Utrecht University. He previously worked at the University of Amsterdam, where he studied biology and conducted doctoral research.
Accessibility and inclusion
Steven: 'I grew up with a chronic illness and physical disability, so I know from personal experience what it feels like to be unable to participate fully. Disabilities are often not taken seriously. I have also experienced how easy it is to make assumptions without checking whether they are correct. My individual struggle for more accessibility and inclusion has gradually expanded to include committees and working groups. As a member of the Advisory Committee on Diverse and Inclusive Higher Education, I now contribute to advice for the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and the higher education and research field."
Underrepresented topics
‘Within the Advisory Committee on Diversity and Inclusive Higher Education and Research, I focus primarily on the theme ‘disability’. This concerns students and staff in higher education and research with disabilities, chronic illnesses, neurodiversity, and other conditions that sometimes require additional facilities. I am also active in the field of informal care by students. These topics are underrepresented in the National Action Plan and the broader inclusion movement, while there is every reason to focus on them.
Invisible assumptions
'The way educational institutions are organized contains invisible assumptions about the bodies and lives of students and staff. When someone does not meet these standards – and this applies not only to people with disabilities – that person often encounters inaccessibility and negative prejudices. This has far-reaching consequences: students do not feel at home in lectures and on campus, cannot participate fully and sometimes drop out.’
Much to be gained
'According to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, to which higher education institutions have committed themselves, it is the responsibility of the institutions themselves to proactively prevent inaccessibility and provide appropriate facilities. This requires both investment and a different way of thinking about disabilities. There is still much to be gained here.
Accessibility, combined with a discrimination-free and socially safe environment, forms the basis for inclusion. Achieving this is complex and requires targeted, ongoing programs for organizational renewal and monitoring of outcomes. Currently, initiatives often come from small groups of committed staff and students. However, it must be a coordinated, institution-wide process, supported by the highest levels of management.'
Involving everyone
'The result is a great value: educational institutions where students and staff feel involved, safe, and valued, are respected for who they are, with equal opportunities, fair remuneration, a healthy and open work culture, and trust in the administration. Inclusion is about everyone, and it is important to involve everyone. I am happy to contribute to this from the Advisory Committee, in collaboration with our partner organizations.'
Dr. Steven Arisz he/him