Equal opportunity, to us, signifies that every member of society has an equitable chance to participate fully and effectively, on an equal basis. In pursuit of this commitment, BBU has implemented policies applicable to all university citizens and established dedicated bodies and committees to address the needs of individuals with special requirements.
Committees and programmes at BBU
The SHSB is a university-level entity entrusted with the evaluation of applications for exemptions and benefits catering to students with disabilities. Its responsibilities extend to coordinating the institution's efforts related to disabilities and facilitating the provision and procurement of technical equipment for students with disabilities.
Chaired by BBU's Equal Opportunities Expert, who also serves as the University's disability coordinator, the SHSB comprises three members from the faculty and three from the student body.
Applications for equal opportunities are received and evaluated by the SHSB through the Neptun platform, with decisions communicated via the same channel. Students with sensory, motor, speech, autism, learning, or behavioral disabilities, certified by a professional opinion issued by a county or district pedagogical service or ELTE GYOPSZ, are eligible to submit applications.
In adherence to legal requirements, the SHSB is unable to grant discounts or exemptions without expert opinions from the specified organizations. Independent expert and foundation opinions are not accepted. Individuals with special needs lacking the mentioned specialist opinions can obtain information on alternative options from BBU's Equal Opportunities Expert.
Members of the SHSB in the academic year 2023/2024:
Dr. Péter Berta (FIMB)
Dr. Dóra Dobák (FFA)
Dr. Orsolya Thuma (FCHT)
Sebestyén Hornyák (FIMB Student Organization)
Adrienn Tóth (FFA Student Organization)
Orsolya Varga (FCHT Student Organization)
In February 2023, BBU reinstated the Equal Opportunities Committee with the primary objective of providing a platform for faculty and staff dedicated to equal opportunities. This initiative aims to foster the expression of views, development of ideas, and submission of proposals within a formal framework. While open to all university employees, the Equal Opportunities Committee actively encourages colleagues from under-represented groups, who wish to contribute as experienced experts, to participate.
The overarching role of the Equal Opportunities Committee is to ensure that all university citizens can engage in work and study at the University, free from any form of discrimination or other manifestations that compromise their human dignity. The committee is also committed to exploring measures that enhance the conditions for citizens from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Currently, the Equal Opportunities Committee operates through five specialized working groups:
- Working Group on the Abuse-Free University Concept
- Working Group on Equal Opportunities for University Students with Children
- Working Group on Equal Opportunities for Students
- Working Group on Equal Opportunities for Disabled University Citizens
- Working Group on Equal Opportunities for Workers Over Fifty
The current Equal Opportunities Plan (2022-2026) at BBU is designed to ensure that all university citizens have the opportunities to harness and develop their talents and skills to the fullest extent. This initiative goes beyond by safeguarding individuals and groups who may be potentially disadvantaged based on a protected characteristic. Compliance with the principles outlined in the Equal Opportunities Plan is obligatory for all University citizens.
Aligned with the University's vision, mission, and strategic objectives, the Equal Opportunities Plan is a testament to the institution's commitment to its five core values: collaboration, excellence, commitment, development, and trust.
To uphold transparency and accountability, progress against the objectives outlined in the Equal Opportunities Plan is reported annually.
The current Equal Opportunities Plan, applicable from 2022 to 2026, articulates values and principles in alignment with the University's vision, mission, and strategic objectives. These principles are binding for all citizens and external partners of BBU, forming the foundation upon which the University will pursue its objectives. The plan identifies target areas for development and outlines groups disadvantaged based on a protected characteristic, prioritizing measures to assist them.
To uphold transparency and accountability, progress against the objectives of the Gender Equality Plan is reported annually.
A repository of ideas for developing considerate and inclusive courses and programs, coupled with details on the eligibility of students with special needs for discounts and exemptions, is now accessible to our staff on the Intranet platform. Those with access to the internal interface can refer to this resource through here.
We encourage all teaching and support staff to reach out to BBU's Equal Opportunities expert for guidance on navigating situations appropriately or addressing any questions they may have.
A woman spends over half a million forints on feminine hygiene products in her lifetime, and for some women, acquiring enough of these products each month poses a challenge. In Hungary, it is estimated that up to 30 percent of women, including young university students, grapple with menstrual poverty. This issue not only impacts their academic attendance but also heightens the risk of dropping out. As a responsible and sustainable university, BBU is committed to raising awareness of contemporary social challenges through its initiatives and programs.
To facilitate education and awareness, an information board placed next to the storage box will provide valuable insights, while a QR code allows users to provide feedback on the project. The next phase of the program's development involves engaging students in both the user and sponsorship aspects. BBU aims to encourage students to contribute to the project by helping stock the storage box whenever possible.
In 2023, recognizing the importance of providing a more intimate and accessibility-oriented setting, we initiated Special Spen Days at BBU for students with special needs. Understanding that traditional events like the Educatio Exhibition and faculty open days, which draw large crowds, may not offer the ideal environment, we aimed to create a more informal and tailored experience.
During 2023, we successfully hosted two Special Open Days, specifically designed for students from the Romaversitas Foundation and Ukrainian students. These private open days provided participants with the opportunity to engage with university students, inquire about their experiences, attend a marketing seminar, explore university facilities such as the canteen and the BBU escape room, and familiarize themselves with other crucial aspects of university life.
We extend a warm invitation to additional groups and foundations to join our special open days. If you work with disadvantaged young people or are a member of a group or association, please reach out to us at sustainability@uni-bge.hu. We would be delighted to organize a half-day program tailored to your specific needs.