Twenty-Ninth International Conference of Europeanists, 28.06.2023, University of Iceland
A significant round table discussion on the 28th of June 2023 brought together key stakeholders from various European Union (EU) funded projects, all centred on the critical theme of “Fostering Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Academia.” The diverse gathering aimed to share insights, lessons learned, and successful practises used to create more inclusive academic environments. Shaban Darakchi, representing the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and presenting the MILIEU project, was among the distinguished attendees.
Shaban Darakchi, a MILIEU team member and active contributor to the academic landscape in Bulgaria, presented the MILIEU project at the round table. His project, “Sustaining Excellence in Bulgaria Through Gender and Disability Research: The MILIEU Project,” aims to close critical gaps in gender and disability research in order to improve academic excellence.
Darakchi emphasised the importance of fostering excellence through specialised gender and disability research. The MILIEU project seeks to fill existing gaps in understanding and addressing these issues, thereby contributing to a more inclusive academic landscape in Bulgaria.
He emphasised the MILIEU project’s innovative methodologies for promoting inclusivity. This includes collaborative research projects, mentorship programmes, and the incorporation of diverse viewpoints into academic discourse.
Darakchi emphasised the critical role of EU funding in catalysing projects such as MILIEU. The financial assistance provided a solid foundation for the project, allowing it to implement impactful strategies that would not have been possible otherwise.
The round table discussion on “Fostering Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Academia” was a valuable gathering that brought together passionate individuals like Shaban Darakchi to share their experiences and contribute to the collective goal of creating more inclusive academic environments. The MILIEU project and others’ findings will undoubtedly inspire new initiatives and collaborations, resulting in positive change in academia across the European Union.
