The long shadow of social origin - Online lecture by Dr. Frerk Blome

Dear university members,

educational qualifications are key social markers and play a decisive role in determining the life chances of individuals. From kindergarten to university, unequal opportunities based on social background have been extensively researched and documented - and yet the shadow of social background extends far into the higher education system.

As part of the UA Ruhr Annual Anti-discrimination Program 2026, we cordially invite you to the online lecture by Dr. Frerk Blome "The long shadow of social origin - inequalities in the German higher education and science system".

06.05.2026 - 12-13 o'clock - online

Afterwards there will be an open room for exchange.

Link to the Zoom room

The lecture will provide a systematic overview of empirical research and theoretical explanations of social origin and inequality in the German higher education and science system. Initially, the focus will be on students: differences in access to higher education, study progression and experiences will be examined. This will be followed by a look at academic careers, where the few available studies show a clear underrepresentation of people from disadvantaged social classes.

We hope for great interest and look forward to numerous participants.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.