Looking back to the awards programme earlier this year, South East Technological University has been named winner of the Diversity, Inclusivity, Equality Award at the Education Awards 2026, recognised for an EDI strategy that has moved well beyond policy to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion as a core institutional practice across teaching, research, governance, and student engagement throughout the university.

SETU's approach demonstrates the kind of educational leadership that distinguishes genuinely transformative EDI work from compliance-driven initiatives. By developing a university-wide action plan supported by sustained resourcing and clear accountability structures, the institution has created a blueprint that others across Ireland's higher education sector can look to as a practical model for building inclusive campus environments where both staff and students are treated fairly and with respect.

The submission's use of case studies to demonstrate real-world impact gave judges a clear and credible picture of a strategy that is working in practice, not just on paper. Initiatives spanning all levels and departments, targeting both staff and student populations, reflect an institution that understands inclusion as a whole-organisation responsibility rather than the remit of a single team or committee. Strong collaboration across faculties and encouraging internal initiatives have reinforced a culture of belonging that extends from the lecture hall to senior governance.

For a university operating across multiple campuses in Ireland's south east, the scale of SETU's EDI ambition and the consistency of its delivery represent a significant achievement in advancing education excellence across a diverse and geographically spread institution.

Judges were emphatic in their assessment. "This entrant exemplified excellence in crafting a well-structured and impactful EDI strategy that spans all levels and departments, targeting both staff and students. Using case studies to demonstrate real-world impact, SETU has gone beyond policy to create a university-wide action plan, setting a clear blueprint for others to follow. With strong collaboration and encouraging initiatives, this is an exemplary approach to ensuring an inclusive campus where everyone belongs," the panel stated.

The Diversity, Inclusivity, Equality Award recognises Irish-based third level institutions, technical training colleges, and organisations that have built genuinely inclusive environments where diversity is championed, assessed across the quality of the DE&I strategy, implementation, senior management buy-in, key challenges overcome, and the measurable outcomes delivered for staff and students across the education sector.

The Education Awards 2026 gala took place on 16 April at the Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath.

For the complete 2026 winners list, category insights, and institution profiles, visit the official Education Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for updates and insights.