Diversity

Social diversity, gender equality and inclusion of people with disabilities are all key priorities at École Polytechnique and the l’X Diversity and Success Center is responsible for a number of actions in this area. The institution’s diversity policy involves three main objectives: to increase diversity in programs, to mold students into responsible leaders committed to fighting for diversity, and to ensure compliance with École Polytechnique’s social and jurisdictional obligations. Since 2005, l’X has been involved in the Cordées de la réussite (Pathway to Success) initiative, which promotes access to higher education for young people from low-income households. The initiative led to the launch of the national X-Talents campaign, which targets and supports promising students from disadvantaged neighborhoods, allowing them to benefit from excellent education, including at École Polytechnique. In addition, 30 scholarships are awarded each year, some 30 students from preparatory classes take part in the X-internat training course, and 200 high school students participate in science camps. Another example of the institution’s commitment to diversity is the X-au féminin scheme, which seeks to boost the number of female students at l’X and encourage girls to pursue careers in science. A disability awareness day is also held each year at the institution, which works to develop a management approach that promotes the integration of people with disabilities into the student and professional world, and uses disabled sports to break down social barriers. In 2018, around 20 students of the Ingénieur Polytechnicien Program studied disability awareness in the world of work as part of their training to become future managers.