Diversity management encompasses dimensions such as gender and sexual orientation, age, disabilities, nationality, ethnicity, religion, and socio-economic status (SES) and is fundamental to sustainable development, enabling higher education institutions (HEIs) to foster inclusive, equitable, and resilient academic environments. This study examines diversity management practices in seven Czech and five Ukrainian HEIs recognized as leaders in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. Data were obtained from university websites, SDG reports, or annual reports focusing on SDG 1, SDG 2, SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 8, SDG 10, and SDG 16. The analysis shows that Czech universities demonstrate structured policies and stable resources, enabling them to offer comprehensive support for professional growth, gender equality, and inclusivity. Examples include sabbatical opportunities, gender-balanced organizational policies, and adaptive measures for individuals with disabilities. Conversely, Ukrainian universities exhibit remarkable resilience and adaptability, addressing challenges posed by the ongoing war. Key initiatives include supporting displaced students and veterans, restoring damaged infrastructure, and integrating inclusive education practices under wartime constraints. Despite differing contexts, both countries emphasize financial aid and scholarships as critical tools for ensuring equitable access to education. The findings underscore the importance of leveraging diversity dimensions to develop effective strategies for achieving SDGs while adapting to regional and institutional specificities.
Acknowledgment
This publication is based upon work from 24-PKVV-UM-002, ‘Strengthening the Resilience of Universities: Czech-Ukrainian Partnership for Digital Education, Research Cooperation, and Diversity Management,’ supported by the Czech Development Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the initiative ‘Capacity Building of Public Universities in Ukraine 2024’.