Research from the Newham-based university says more must be done to foster an inclusive higher education sector reports Jean Gray
A study exposing the systemic barriers that hinder the progress of Black academics in UK business schools and co-authored by Newham-based University of East London (UEL) has called for radical change.
The report says more must be done to foster a more inclusive and representative higher education sector.
The report, Creating Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging in Higher Education: The Challenges and Opportunities for Black Academics in University Business Schools, and co-authored by UEL and the University of Reading’s Henley Business School, examines the varied experiences of Black academics working in the UK and US. It specifically analysed the internal factors that have historically contributed to a lack of career progression, including towards professorship.
Co-authored by Dr Jummy Okoya, Dean of UEL’s Office for Institutional Equity, and Professor of Coaching and Behavioural Change at Henley Business School, Dr Jonathan Passmore, the report calls for radical change at an institutional and individual level, to bridge the gap between Black academics and their peers, and ensure they have every opportunity to thrive and feel a sense of belonging.
Less than 1 percent of professor roles are held by Black academics, despite making up 4.4 percent of the working-age population. This lack of representation was associated with adverse effects on curriculum diversity, leadership, and student experiences, as well as more widely perpetuating systemic inequities.
The report was launched at an evening reception in the Home Room at the House of Lords in London on 9 December 2024.
Meanwhile, the University of East London has awarded an honorary doctorate in business to London’s Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan.
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