2. Inclusiveness, Openness & Diversity

Inclusiveness, openness, and diversity are essential for preparing present and future leaders to serve diverse groups in society, especially those living in vulnerable situations, and to empower them to participate in policy decision-making that impacts their lives.

A critical element in achieving excellence in public administration education and training is the unwavering commitment of faculty, trainers, practitioners, administration, and students to inclusiveness, openness, and diversity. The education and training program should be open and accessible to all interested individuals, free from any prejudices. Faculty, trainers, practitioners, administration, students, and trainees should represent a wide range of racial, ethnic, and demographic communities within society.

The program should promote multidimensional diversity, inclusive leadership and mindsets, fostering a culture of inclusion, openness, and participation in research, teaching, and training both within the institution and with community stakeholders. The ideas, concepts, theories, and practices addressed in the program should reflect a broad array of intellectual interests, voices, and approaches. Inclusiveness regarding ethnicity, nationality, race, religion, gender, gender orientation, persons with disabilities, older persons, the youth, and Indigenous Peoples also serves to encourage diversity of ideas. As much as possible, the program should promote digital inclusion enabling students and trainees to fully participate in the digital world and benefit from its opportunities as highlighted, for example, by the UN Global Digital Compact. In turn, they should be equipped with the capacities to use technology to engage citizens in government deliberations and processes.

Inclusiveness as a value and practice is an evolving framework that encompasses a range of policies, practices, and attitudes aimed at creating environments where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to participate fully. As such, the program should continuously adapt to reflect changing societal norms, diverse perspectives, and the needs of various communities.