Data from the Higher Education Staff Statistics (HESA) for the UK in 2022/23 reveals that only 22% of academic staff with recorded ethnicity come from ethnic minority backgrounds. Among 22,345 professors, just 2,865—equating to 13%—are from these backgrounds. 

The representation of ethnic minority professors in university management committees, which play a crucial role in decision-making, is even lower. Although there has been a slight increase in ethnic minority academics and professors in recent years due to heightened awareness and various initiatives, significant challenges remain. This includes notable attainment gaps at the undergraduate level and a lack of visible role models. 

The Welsh Ethnic Minority Professors Initiative (WEMPI) group has been established to address these critical issues within Welsh universities.