First-gen.ch is the online platform resulting from the project “Selectivity due to Social Origin in Swiss Higher Education” (2021–2024) within the framework of the federal program P-7 Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities in the Development of Higher Education Institutions (2021–2024) of swissuniversities, which aimed to better understand the obstacles faced by first-generation students. This initial project, led by five partner universities (Bern, Fribourg, Lucerne, St. Gallen, and Zurich), enabled the implementation of several measures, including the creation of this platform.
Today, the dissemination and promotion of this platform are part of the project “First Gen+ – Advance First-Generation Students and Academics in Swiss Higher Education” within the framework of the new program Equity – Promoting Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at All Levels of Higher Education 2025–2028. With this new project, the network of partner institutions has expanded (now eight: Bern, EPFL, ETHZ, Fribourg, Geneva, Lucerne, Neuchâtel, and Italian-speaking Switzerland).
Thus, this platform contributes to building a fairer and more inclusive university environment by offering resources and information for future, current, and former first-generation students, supporting their academic success and well-being throughout their journey.
