The Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Conference 2026, organised by Advance HE, will bring together higher education leaders, academics, and policymakers from across the UK and beyond to explore the progress and future direction of equality and inclusion in universities. Held as a hybrid event, it combines the accessibility of online participation with the depth and energy of an in-person conference, making it one of the most inclusive gatherings in the education sector’s annual calendar.
Advance HE’s annual EDI conference is known for tackling the real issues shaping equity in education — from gender and race equality to disability inclusion, leadership, and institutional accountability. The 2026 edition will focus on the theme of “Transforming Policy into Practice”, examining how universities can move from statements of intent to tangible change that improves experiences for both staff and students. Over two days, speakers will share innovative case studies, research findings, and leadership strategies that show how inclusive culture can be embedded at every level of the institution.
The conference draws an audience of vice-chancellors, EDI directors, HR leaders, academics, and students, creating a vibrant mix of perspectives. Plenary sessions will feature keynote addresses from national and international leaders in higher education policy, as well as voices from grassroots inclusion initiatives. Each session aims to provide both inspiration and critical insight into what works — and what still needs to change — to create fairer, more representative institutions.
Delegates can expect deep-dives into subjects such as inclusive curriculum design, equitable recruitment in academia, data-driven diversity monitoring, and leadership accountability. Workshops will allow smaller groups to share best practices, explore new research, and develop actions that participants can take back to their own institutions. The interactive structure ensures that attendees not only hear from experts but also contribute their experiences and ideas.
The hybrid format means that delegates can participate from anywhere in the world. The in-person venue offers live plenary sessions, networking receptions, and exhibition stands featuring EDI partners and sponsors, while online participants can access live streams, Q&A sessions, and digital networking lounges. This model reflects Advance HE’s commitment to accessibility and sustainability, ensuring that professional learning is open to all.
Advance HE is one of the UK’s most respected organisations for promoting equality and leadership in higher education. Its EDI conference provides a trusted platform for universities to share data, policies, and projects that have driven measurable improvement. Attendees can expect to hear updates on major frameworks such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter, along with new initiatives designed to strengthen equity and inclusion across the sector.
A key feature of the 2026 event will be its focus on intersectionality. Discussions will explore how gender, ethnicity, disability, class, and sexual orientation intersect to shape the experiences of both students and staff. Speakers will present case studies showing how universities are adopting more holistic approaches to policy development and support systems that recognise these overlapping identities.
Networking opportunities are built into the schedule, both in person and online. Delegates will be able to meet colleagues from across the higher education community, fostering collaboration between institutions and sectors. Exhibitors include education charities, student organisations, and technology partners offering tools to measure, train, and improve inclusion outcomes.
The conference also provides a rare opportunity for reflection. By drawing on national data, institutional research, and lived experience, it encourages participants to think critically about progress to date and identify the systemic barriers that remain. The final plenary will bring together thought leaders to discuss how the sector can maintain momentum, even in challenging financial and political climates.
For anyone working in or alongside higher education, the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Conference 2026 offers two days of powerful insight and collaboration. It blends academic rigour with practical relevance, leaving delegates better equipped to drive change within their own institutions. Whether attending in person or online, participants will come away with a renewed sense of purpose — and a clear understanding that inclusion, in education and beyond, is the foundation of excellence.
🎟️ Tickets: advance-he.ac.uk