The Athena Swan Charter
The Athena SWAN Charter was launched in Ireland in 2015 and is a major national initiative supported by the Higher Education Authority. It was established with the aim to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in higher education and research in the fields of science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment.
Since its origin the Charter has expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. The Charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.
SETU Waterford has signed up to the Athena Swan Charter, is a member of the National Higher Education Athena Swan working group and is currently in the process of preparing its application for Bronze accreditation.