Global Experts Convene at Abertay University for Education Inclusivity Summit

Strategies for widening access to higher education across Europe were brought forward at a major international conference hosted by Abertay University.

The European Access Network (EAN) Conference 2024 brought more than 260 delegates to Dundee for three days of presentations, workshops and social events focused on increasing access to university for under-represented groups.

More than 20 sessions were delivered across the event, including a keynote from Professor John McKendrick, the Scottish Government’s Commissioner for Fair Access.

The EAN is the only European-wide, non-governmental organisation for widening participation in higher education.

It aims to support all those who are under-represented in higher education, whether for reasons of gender, ethnic origin, nationality, age, disability, family background, vocational training, geographic location, or earlier educational disadvantage.

Professor Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Abertay University said:

The EAN Conference is a fantastic opportunity for policymakers, academics, practitioners, researchers, and administrators from around the world to share strategies for widening participation, diversity, and inclusion in universities and a chance to spark new ideas and fresh thinking in this important area of work. Widening access is woven into the DNA of all that we do at Abertay and we’re delighted to be providing this platform for international delegates to come together, share insights and research, and contribute to building more equitable tertiary education systems across the world.

Professor John McKendrick said:

At this fantastic event, I witnessed the enthusiasm and innovation that the European access community has generated. I encourage all conference participants to take forth that good work and develop collaborations to continue to enable fair access across Europe.