International Women's Day

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International Women's Day 2025

International Women’s Day (IWD) is an annual celebration of the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world. It also marks a call to action for collective progress towards achieving gender equality.

IWD takes place on Saturday 8 March 2025. This year’s official theme is Accelerate Action and the UN Women theme is For ALL women and girls.

At the University of Exeter, our priority is to ensure a sense of belonging for all gender identities, including trans and non-binary staff and students. You can find out more about some of our work on this page.

This page is regularly updated. If you have any events, resources or support you would like listed here, please email EDI@exeter.ac.uk.

Gender Equality Conference 2025

The University of Exeter is holding its first Gender Equality Conference in May 2025. Find out more planned events, resources and support on our dedicated webpage.

News and updates

Athena Swan applications and awards

The Athena Swan Charter recognises work undertaken by institutions in the United Kingdom to address gender equality across the higher education sector. In January 2025 our Politics department achieved an Athena Swan Bronze award. You can find out more about our institutional and department awards online.

Events, resources and support

Gender, Politics, Scholarship: Feminist Interventions in MENA Studies

Join CCAS, the Middle East Research and Information Project (MERIP), and the University of Exeter Institute of Arabic and Islamic Studies for a roundtable on the past, present and future of feminist approaches to the field of Middle East and North African Studies.

Celebrating women in Higher Education in Cornwall

Join this inspiring gathering dedicated to recognising and empowering women in academia (both in teaching/research and professional services). This year, we are celebrating stories of belonging - especially those of us who have come to Cornwall from outside. This event provides a platform for women across the sector to share their personal stories of belonging, both within the vibrant Cornish community and the dynamic field of higher education.

WISEnet: International Women’s Day celebratory brunch

WISEnet Women’s Network invite all colleagues to join us for a special brunch to celebrate International Women’s Day. We’ll be focusing on wellbeing and will have some relaxing games and activities on offer, so why not take a break and get away from your desk? There’ll be lots of lovely brunch food and hot drinks to boost your Thursday mood! Please book your place by 5pm on Monday 3 March.

Workshop: Bystander training

Staff and students can take part in a 2-hour in-person bystander intervention workshop which is available across all campuses.

It looks at how to be an effective and active bystander across a range of settings, including situations where sexism, sexual violence and racist behaviour happen.

This is an opportunity to explore these topics and ask questions in a safe and inclusive space.

Menopause support

Bitesize learning: Menopause at work

Colleagues and managers can join a 1-hour bitesize learning session to learn more about:

  • Signs and symptoms of peri-menopause and menopause
  • The potential impact on work activities
  • Support and resources available, including reasonable adjustments
  • How managers can support colleagues

There is also an opportunity for discussion and sharing best practice.

Network events

You can find menopause guidance and information about our Menopause Network (including events) on the University of Exeter Health and Wellbeing pages.

Spectrum Life: Celebrating International Women's Day

  • Wednesday 5 March, 1:15pm
  • Online
  • Event information (sign up with your exeter.ac.uk email address and the organisation code UoEWell)

The University of Exeter's Employee Assistance Programme, Spectrum Life, is hosting an online event to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event will honour the achievements and strength of women everywhere. It will cover important topics like gender equality, empowerment, and support. It's an opportunity to uplift voices, share stories, and advocate for women's rights and fairness. You can join live or catch up after the event on the Spectrum Life Wellbeing Series.

International Women's Day Gala (£)

Join Inspiring Women Network for their flagship annual fundraiser event, featuring fantastic speakers, amazing performances and a delicious 3-course meal.

International Women's Day at The Women's Centre Cornwall

Join The Women's Centre Cornwall for WE CHOOSE OUR FUTURES: A Discussion On Women's Rights Around The World, featuring Dr Elif Özsoy, alongside an international buffet and HERSTORY exhibition.

International Women's Day Festival

Join this International Women's Day celebration featuring talks, performances, and more.

 

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