The Faculty of Applied Sciences Appoints Its First-Ever Student Ombudswoman and Ombudsman

Lucie Zůchová and Jan Šimek aim to help ensure a safe and inclusive study environment for everyone at FAS UWB. Responding to the vice-dean’s call, they applied for the newly established positions of student ombudswoman and ombudsman. In their new roles, their primary goal is to help fellow students.

They care about the environment in which they study and how people treat each other. Lucie Zůchová and Jan Šimek from the Faculty of Applied Sciences (FAS) at the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen agree on this. That is why they became student ombudswoman and ombudsman. The faculty has introduced these positions for the first time in its history.

"To be honest, I hope that Lucie and I will have as little work as possible, because a small number of complaints will most likely imply that the atmosphere at our faculty is excellent and, on the whole, perhaps even above average," said Jan Šimek. Lucie has already experienced a situation in which she would have welcomed the support of a student ombudsman. "It was this experience that helped me realize how important it is to have an independent and trustworthy person at the institution whom you can turn to without fear of negative consequences. I want students to know that there is a safe and confidential point of contact they can turn to even in situations where they are unsure how to proceed," explained Lucie. However, she herself perceives the environment at FAS as one of the most pleasant she has ever worked in.

The student ombudsman and ombudswoman mainly have a supportive and advisory role. They are available to all students of the faculty, confidentially, independently, and impartially. They primarily handle complaints about treatment by faculty members or other students. They help resolve conflicts or situations related to social security. For example, they address inappropriate behavior, discrimination, harassment, and other hurtful communication. Libor Váša, the faculty's vice dean for studies, explained why FAV entrusted this responsibility to two students: "They can represent each other and discuss issues together when resolving complaints. Lucka and Honza are in different years and study types - Lucka may be closer to incoming bachelor's students, while doctoral student Honza may be closer to graduating students. Those submitting complaints can choose who to turn to."

The decision to create both a female and male student ombudsman position at FAS is also welcomed by Petr Šimon, ombudsman at the University of West Bohemia: "It's great that students will have the opportunity to turn not only to one confidential person, but to two working in tandem. I am familiar with this model from other universities, where it has proven successful. I am very much looking forward to working with Lucie and Honza, especially in the area of prevention." If necessary, the FAS ombudsman duo will cooperate not only with the university ombudsman but also with the faculty management.

Students can contact Lucie and Honza at their shared email address: ombsfav@fav.zcu.cz. If anyone wishes to discuss an issue with only one of them, they can indicate this directly in their email or contact the ombudswoman or ombudsman individually via their student email address.