Sami Karamalla Gaiballa: Why Our Values Need EDI Data to Come Alive

by | 5 Jan 2026 | Data and Research | 0 comments

As we adapt for what’s to come, who we are and what we stand for won’t change. Our motto – Knowledge, Wisdom, Humanity – continues to guide us as we chart our next chapter as a globally recognised civic university. But here’s the truth: we cannot fully live these values without robust Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) data. Why? Because values without evidence risk becoming aspirations rather than actions.

Knowledge – Why Accurate Data Matters

Knowledge thrives on accuracy. If the data we hold is incomplete or outdated, the insights we draw as well as the decisions we make, will be flawed. That’s why updating your EDI details in MyView is so important. Every disclosure helps us build a clearer picture of our community, enabling us to identify gaps and design interventions that work.

Accurate data underpins key reports, which highlight disparities and informs targeted action plans. Without reliable data, these reports risk misrepresenting reality, making it harder to challenge inequities or measure progress. In short, accurate data is the foundation for evidence-based change.

Wisdom – Integrity and Courage in the Decisions We Make

Courageous decisions require clarity. Pay gap reporting, awarding gaps, and representation metrics give us the insight to act with integrity. Without data, we rely on assumptions which are often shaped by privilege.

The Equality Information Report is one of the examples. It provides a transparent view of representation across grades, pay bands, and protected characteristics. This report shouldn’t just sit on a shelf. It should be used to inform policy decisions, highlights areas for improvement, and helps us track progress over time. By sharing this data openly, we demonstrate integrity and accountability, ensuring that our actions match our words.

Humanity – Compassion, Inclusion and Community in How We Treat One Another

Humanity means creating a sense of belonging for every colleague and student. But belonging isn’t just a feeling and it’s measurable. Engagement surveys, disclosure rates, and participation data help us see where inclusion is working and where it’s not.

In our Lunch & Learn sessions, we’ve explained why we collect EDI data and how it benefits the community from improving reporting to shaping support services.

What You Can Do Today

To help us live our values through evidence:

  • Review and update your EDI information in MyView – accurate data drives meaningful change.
  • Engage with the Your Voice Matters and other surveys – your voice matters in shaping inclusion.
  • Familiarise yourself with Chartermark submissions – understand how these frameworks support our progress and reputation.

Together, we can turn Knowledge, Wisdom, Humanity from guiding principles into lived reality.

Sami Karamalla Gaiballa: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner and Lead Data Analyst

0 Comments