Diversity Audit Workshop: Communication that gets the message across

How can topics and programmes be designed and communicated in such a way that they are tailored to the actual needs of the people we wish to reach? This question will be explored at the next event organised by the OVGU’s Diversity Audit on 15 October 2026. 

Gaining a better understanding of perspectives and needs

The university develops a wide range of programmes, projects and opportunities for participation aimed at different groups of people. However, even a programme that is academically sound and well-intentioned does not automatically reach the people for whom it is intended. We often initially view target groups from our own academic or institutional perspective. This makes it all the more important to take their experiences, expectations and potential barriers to access into account right from the start.

This is explicitly not about public relations in the traditional sense, writing texts or using social media. Rather, the focus is on a shift in perspective: how can we develop a better understanding of the people we wish to address or support through our initiatives? And how can we incorporate their perspectives and needs more effectively into the design and communication of our topics and initiatives?

What to expect from the workshop

With expert guidance from an external trainer, we will explore the following questions, amongst others:

• Who do we want to reach with our topics and services?

• What do we know about these people’s perspectives and needs?

• What expectations, experiences and potential barriers to access should we take into account?

• Which assumptions about our target groups should we challenge?

• How can we design our programmes to be more tailored to needs and target groups right from the start?

As well as providing expert input, the workshop offers space for discussion, joint reflection and practical exercises. Participants’ own experiences, questions and perspectives are expressly welcome.

Who can take part?

All interested members of the OVGU community, including students, are invited. The event can be attended independently of previous Diversity Audit events. No prior knowledge is required.

The event will generally be held in German. If necessary, individual tasks and parts of the discussions can be translated into English.

Date and registration

Date: 15 October 2026, 09:00–12:00

Venue: Faculty Centre (3rd floor) | Building 22 | Universitätsplatz - Main Campus 
As room capacity is limited, please complete registration in advance.