On October 29, Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) hosted the European Women Rectors Association (EWORA) seminar titled "Universities as Change Agents to Create Gender-Based Violations-Free Society". The event brought together researchers, academics, and leaders in higher education from various countries to discuss and share experiences on how universities can actively contribute to promoting gender equality and preventing gender-based violence both within higher education institutions and in society.
The seminar was opened by Dr. Nomeda Gudelienė, Advisor to the MRU Vice-Rector on Sustainable Development, who highlighted the event's importance and called for collaborative efforts to drive change. MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė welcomed the participants, underscoring the responsibility of universities to address issues of gender inequality and foster social accountability.
"I hope that the EWORA seminar, held in partnership with Mykolas Romeris University, will provide us with the latest scientific evidence, different organisational practices and tools to identify and prevent gender-based violence, thus contributing to societal progress," said Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė.
EWORA President Prof. Kerstin Tham emphasized in her speech the influence that university communities have in combating gender discrimination and violence. She pointed out that collaboration and knowledge-sharing between higher education institutions are essential for creating real change in this area.
After the official part, a panel discussion took place, chaired by Prof. Pamela Gillies, former Vice Chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University. In this part of the event, five speakers presented their research and experiences in combating gender-based violence.
Prof. Kerstin Tham shared her research on gender-based violence and sexual harassment in the Swedish higher education system, highlighting current issues and proposing practical solutions. Prof. Isabel Gil, Rector of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, presented the "Women+" program, which aims to ensure equality and equal opportunities for all members of her university community. Prof. Beth Stroble, Chancellor Emeritus of Webster University, discussed the role of university leadership in ending gender-based violence, stressing that change starts with commitments from top leadership.
Dr. Vilana Pilinkaitė-Sotirovič, a Research fellow at the Lithuanian Centre for Social Science, Institute of Sociology, presented insights from the UniSAFE project, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and inclusive academic environment. MRU Associate Professor Dr. Ramunė Jakštienė introduced the "HELCI – Higher Education Learning Community for Inclusion" project, aimed at promoting non-discrimination principles and upholding shared European values in higher education.
The seminar concluded with a general discussion in which participants explored potential avenues for cooperation among universities and other organizations to strengthen gender equality and create a safe learning environment. Participants emphasized that events like these not only raise awareness but also pave the way for meaningful changes that support equal relationships in society.
This EWORA seminar at MRU reaffirmed that universities have a crucial role in combating gender-based violence and can drive progress toward a more equal and safe society.
