University Ombudsman: My mission is to promote a fair environment and prevent problems

Translated automatically…

A safe and fair working and studying environment is one of Palacký University's priorities. Since February this year, the Ombudsman's Office has strengthened this area at the university level. Jaroslav Šotola, with extensive experience in equal access and social security, was appointed to this role.

A graduate of the Faculty of Arts at Palacký University and Charles University, Jaroslav Šotola has been professionally associated with the Department of Sociology, Andragogy, and Cultural Anthropology at the Faculty of Arts since 2009. In his professional career, he has focused on the integration of minorities and power asymmetry in the academic environment, completed training in transformative mediation, collaborated with People in Need, co-founded the School Ombuds Platform, and, last but not least, served as the faculty ombudsman for students at the Faculty of Arts of Palacký University for several years.

"I realise that an environment based on mutual respect, fairness, and academic integrity must be actively built and cultivated together. Through my work, I want to help make our university a safe place for everyone who works or studies here. I also want to encourage anyone who has witnessed unethical behaviour to have confidence in this vision of a safe, fair, and pluralistic university environment and not be afraid to speak up. I see my mission as a great commitment to my alma mater," he says of his new role, adding that he will always strive for a positive approach.

Palacký University established a university-wide ombudsman's office in accordance with its mission and values, with the aim of strengthening the protection of individual rights.

"The establishment of the position of university ombudsman represents a fundamental step for our university towards strengthening a culture of safety, respect, and openness. The ombudsman is an independent partner to whom all members of the academic community can turn, and their role helps prevent misunderstandings and systemic problems. I believe that this institution will contribute significantly to making Palacký University an environment where everyone can feel heard, respected, and supported," said UP Rector Michael Kohajda.

Who can contact the ombudsman and with what issues?

The university ombudsman can be contacted primarily by students from UP faculties that do not have their own ombudspersons, university employees, including non-academic staff, as well as participants in lifelong learning or the University of the Third Age. They can do so if they feel that they are being bullied or discriminated against, that there is abuse of power, sexual harassment, or other conflict situations. The ombudsman is also available for supportive consultations.

"It is certainly possible to contact me before filing a specific complaint and consult with me about the situation. Very often, an amicable solution can be found at this stage, thus preventing further problems," he encourages. You can contact him by e-mail or in person during consultation hours, and a special FaceUp application will also be available soon.

On the other hand, the ombudsman does not decide on study obligations, study results, or labour disputes. Nor does he replace disciplinary, ethical, or other decision-making bodies at UP. "However, even in cases that do not fall within my jurisdiction, I can help you navigate the options for further action and refer you to the appropriate department or university body," he adds.