Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy
Policy Statement
An-Najah National University is proud of its diverse community and recognizes the value that diversity brings to university life, education, research, and innovation. The University embraces and celebrates the differences between people and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
The University is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across all aspects of its activities. This commitment includes ensuring fair and equitable policies, procedures, and practices that support a safe, respectful and welcoming academic and working environment for all members of the university community.
An-Najah National University does not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or victimization of any kind and is committed to creating an institutional culture that promotes equal opportunity and inclusion.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion principles are embedded across all university functions, including teaching and learning, research, employment, campus life and community engagement.
The University recognizes the educational, social and institutional benefits of having a diverse community of students, staff and partners and seeks to create an environment where all individuals can achieve their full potential.
Scope
This policy applies to all members of the An-Najah National University community, including:
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University Council and leadership
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Academic and administrative staff
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Students and student applicants
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Job applicants
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Contractors and service providers
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Visitors and partners
The policy applies to all university activities, whether conducted on campus, online, or through any form of communication including verbal, written, or digital interactions.
Principles
An-Najah National University adopts the following principles to guide its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion:
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Equality of opportunity for all individuals.
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Respect for diversity in all its forms.
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Fair and transparent decision-making processes.
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Zero tolerance toward discrimination, harassment, or victimization.
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Promotion of inclusive learning and working environments.
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Support for underrepresented and vulnerable groups.
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Continuous monitoring and improvement of equality practices.
Protected Characteristics
The University prohibits discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment based on any of the following characteristics:
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Age
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Disability
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Gender or gender reassignment
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Marriage or civil partnership
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Pregnancy or maternity
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Race or ethnicity
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Religion or belief
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Sexual orientation
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Refugee or asylum seeker status
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Nationality
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Socio-economic background
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Health status
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Political opinion
The University also recognizes the importance of protecting individuals from discrimination related to other personal circumstances that may lead to inequality or exclusion.
Commitment to Inclusive Education and Employment
The University ensures that discrimination does not occur in any decisions related to:
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Student admissions and enrollment
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Teaching, learning and assessment
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Student progression and support
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Recruitment and employment
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Career development and promotion
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Staff development opportunities
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Pay, remuneration and recognition
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Access to university facilities and services
The University actively encourages individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for study and employment opportunities in order to strengthen diversity across the institution.
Accessibility and Inclusive Infrastructure
An-Najah National University is committed to ensuring that its physical and digital environments are accessible and inclusive.
The University strives to provide:
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Accessible campus infrastructure and facilities
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Inclusive teaching and learning practices
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Assistive technologies and support services for persons with disabilities
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Inclusive digital platforms and educational resources
The University will continue to improve accessibility across campus to ensure equal participation in academic and social life.
Implementation
To support the implementation of this policy, the University will:
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Provide training and awareness programs on equality, diversity and inclusion.
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Encourage respectful dialogue and intercultural understanding.
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Develop strategies to recruit and retain a diverse workforce and student body.
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Promote inclusive teaching, research and campus engagement.
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Collaborate with national and international partners to advance equality initiatives.
Monitoring and Evaluation
The University will collect and analyze relevant data to monitor equality and diversity indicators among students and staff.
This information will be used to:
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assess the effectiveness of institutional policies
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identify areas requiring improvement
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inform future policy development and institutional planning
Regular monitoring ensures accountability and supports the University's commitment to continuous improvement in equality and inclusion.
Governance and Responsibilities
The responsibility for implementing this policy is shared across the University.
University Council
Has overall responsibility for ensuring that equality, diversity and inclusion principles are embedded within the University's governance and strategic direction.
University Leadership
The President and senior leadership team are responsible for ensuring that institutional policies promote equality and eliminate discrimination.
Human Resources Department
Responsible for implementing EDI principles in employment practices, recruitment, training and staff development.
Deanship of Student Affairs
Responsible for ensuring that students are supported within an inclusive learning environment and that equality principles are respected across student activities.
Academic Departments and Units
Responsible for promoting equality of opportunity and preventing discrimination within their areas of responsibility.
Members of the University Community
All staff, students and partners are expected to uphold the principles of this policy and contribute to an inclusive and respectful university environment.
Reporting and Complaints
Any instances of discrimination, harassment, or victimization should be reported through the University's official Grievances and Complaints Committee.
Reports may be submitted through:
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Human Resources Office
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Deanship of Student Affairs
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University Grievance and Complaints Committees
All complaints will be handled confidentially and investigated according to university procedures.
Appropriate disciplinary action may be taken where violations of this policy are confirmed.
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals
This policy supports An-Najah National University's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
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SDG 4 – Quality Education
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SDG 5 – Gender Equality
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SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
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SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Through this policy, the University promotes inclusive education and equal opportunities for all members of society.
Related Policies
This policy operates alongside other university policies including:
Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with international best practices and institutional priorities.
Effective Date: October 12, 2016
Last Review: June 15, 2025