Project STROP

Phases of the project

The project consisted of 2 phases: the initial and the implementation phase.

In the HRS4R initial phase, we carried out a questionnaire survey to get feedback on HR management and working conditions at the University of Pardubice, which was the first such survey covering the entire university. We also conducted a GAP analysis, which served as a basis for preparing the HRS4R Action Plan for the following three-year period as well as the subsequent period, and also the OTM-R Policy. These actions involved a commitment by the University of Pardubice to implement the measures to deliver on the principles of the Charter and the Code; in addition, these actions were also part of the application for the HR Award, which was effectively the end of the initial phase.

In 2021, we were granted the HR Award by the European Commission, which was the end of the initial phase, and we entered the implementation phase.

The implementation of the HRS4R strategy involved gradual meeting of the objectives of the University of Pardubice HRS4R Action Plan, which took us 24 months from the moment of being granted the HR Award. The implementation phase terminated in 2022.

Project sustainability

The period between 2023 and 2026 corresponds to the project sustainability. This phase involves both self-assessment as well as implementation and award renewal. The self-assessment phase started in 2023, when second internal questionnaire survey was conducted covering employees and PhD students. On the basis of the results, the Action Plan was updated for the 2023-2026 period. The self-assessment phase will finish with Interim Assessment/Interim Review being filed in November 2023. 

The next phase involves implementation of the updated 2023-2026 Action Plan. Another questionnaire survey is scheduled for 2026 followed by an update of the Action Plan for another 3-year period. In 2026, we will also need to re-apply for the HR Award, which corresponds to the award renewal phase. To assess the progress in the implementation of the activities, the European Commission will invite external experts from other European research institutions to conduct a Site Visit.

After the Site Visit, the European Commission will determine whether to renew or revoke the certification. The sustainability period terminates once an opinion has been issued. The following implementation, self-assessment and award renewal will not be covered by the STROP project.

Maintaining the HR Award is a sign of quality, but at the same a commitment to continued development and creating good conditions for the employees.