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Description
Young Roma have unequal chances of access and graduation from higher education, the proportion of young Roma with higher education being 10 times higher than that of young Roma. The main problem addressed by the project is the gap regarding access to university education for young Roma and non-Roma, proposing complementary measures to improve the affirmative measure of different seats for Roma in the university environment so that this gap is reduced. A higher proportion of Roma completing tertiary education will contribute to higher chances of integration into the labor market, lower risk of poverty, development of the Roma elite and creation of models. The project "Advocacy for an inclusive university education" aims to improve the policy of the affirmative measure of allocation of distinct seats for Roma in universities. Although this policy has been implemented for about 30 years, its results are limited. In this sense, the proposed project will create complementary measures for Roma inclusion at university level by (1) evaluating the affirmative measure of allocation of distincts seats for Roma, (2) proposing a set of complementary measures to improve Roma inclusion and (3) advocacy for complementary measures for inclusion in universities. Also, a series of complementary measures for Roma inclusion will be piloted at the Partner level (University of Bucharest): actions to increase the capacity of Roma students to participate and represent self-esteem and information and awareness campaign on the significance of Roma inclusion at university. The project addresses especially the problems faced by young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, especially young Roma.
Summary of project results
The project was needed to address the significant educational and employment disparities faced by Roma youth in Romania. Despite public policies like affirmative action for Roma students, the Roma community continues to lag behind in educational attainment, with only 2% of Roma completing higher education, compared to 22% of the general population. The project''s goal was to create complementary measures to include Roma students in higher education and reduce the educational gap between Roma and non-Roma students, especially in the context of rising anti-Roma sentiments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the project, a comprehensive approach was implemented, including a study on the impact of affirmative action for Roma students in universities between 1992-2022, three national meetings with university representatives, consultations with 511 students, and the creation of reform plans for greater inclusion in universities, including specific plans for the University of Bucharest. Additionally, five workshops for students, 13 information sessions for high school students, and the development of an audio-video material were carried out to promote affirmative action policies and share success stories. A complex training program was implemented for 60 Roma and non-Roma students to enhance inclusion, while constant communication through social media and events further raised awareness about the project''s goals.
The main results include increased awareness of affirmative measures and inclusion in universities, with over 1,000 individuals directly participating in workshops, consultations, and information sessions. These activities not only contributed to the better integration of Roma youth into higher education and the labor market but also provided an opportunity for both Roma and non-Roma students to build a more inclusive and intercultural community. The project has also laid the foundation for the continued implementation of policies aimed at reducing educational gaps, with long-term impacts expected in terms of improving the representation of Roma in higher education and enhancing their social mobility.