RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning and work environment with the launch of its second Race Equality Action Plan.

This initiative underscores RCSI’s ongoing dedication to addressing racial inequalities, promoting diversity, and creating an inclusive space for students, staff, and the wider community.

In 2021, RCSI became the first university in Ireland to develop and launch a Race Equality Action Plan. The updated five-year plan builds on RCSI’s long-standing commitments and introduces new measures aimed at combatting racism in all its forms and embedding race equality into the university’s culture, policies, and practices.

Developed through extensive consultation with students, faculty, and external stakeholders, the plan outlines key strategic actions to support race equality, improve representation, and ensure that all members of the RCSI community have an equal opportunity to thrive.

An inclusive environment

Speaking on the launch of the updated plan, Professor Cathal Kelly, RCSI Vice Chancellor, emphasised the university’s commitment to meaningful and sustained change: “RCSI is proud to reaffirm its commitment to race equality and inclusivity. As a global institution dedicated to education, healthcare, and research, we are clear that diversity enriches our academic and professional environment.

“Our updated Race Equality Action Plan represents an important step in ensuring that all members of our community are valued, respected, and empowered to fulfil their potential. Through collective effort and accountability, we will continue to drive meaningful change.”

Professor Gozie Offiah, Associate Professor and Director of Curriculum at the RCSI School of Medicine and Co-Chair of the Race Equality Forum, highlighted the importance of concrete actions in achieving race equality: “Our goal is to create a truly inclusive environment where race equality is embedded in every aspect of university life. This updated plan reflects our dedication to listening, learning, and taking decisive action. We are implementing targeted initiatives that address barriers to inclusion, promote fair representation, and support a culture of belonging. It is only through active engagement and continued commitment that we can bring about lasting and impactful change.”

Enhanced policies

The Race Equality Action Plan aligns with RCSI’s broader Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, which focuses on embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of the institution.

Key initiatives within the plan include enhanced recruitment policies to improve representation, the introduction of bias awareness training, support structures for students and staff from underrepresented backgrounds, and the establishment of accountability frameworks to measure progress.

RCSI invites its community and external partners to make a difference by being advocates for race equality, by actively participating in the implementation of the plan, and by being active bystanders.

You can download the RCSI Race Equality Action Plan 2025-2029 here.