Whistleblower Protection Policy

Policy Statement

An-Najah National University (ANNU) is committed to fostering a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability. The university recognizes the importance of encouraging faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to report unethical behavior, fraud, corruption, or violations of university policies without fear of retaliation. This policy ensures that all reports are handled confidentially and that whistleblowers are protected from any adverse actions.

Purpose

This policy aims to:

• Encourage and protect individuals who report misconduct or ethical violations.

• Establish clear and confidential reporting mechanisms.

• Prevent retaliation against whistleblowers.

• Ensure accountability and ethical behavior within the university community.

Scope

This policy applies to all individuals affiliated with ANNU, including:

• Faculty members

• Staff and administrative personnel

• Students

• Contractors, suppliers, and other external partners

Reports may relate to:

• Fraud and financial misconduct (embezzlement, bribery, misuse of university funds)

• Corruption or abuse of power 

• Academic misconduct (plagiarism, falsification of research data) 

• Discrimination or harassment 

• Violations of health, safety, and environmental regulations 

• Conflicts of interest

• Any other violations of university policies or applicable laws

Principles

The Whistleblower Protection Policy is based on the following guiding principles:

1. Confidentiality: The identity of whistleblowers will be protected, and information will be handled with the utmost discretion.

2. Non-Retaliation: Whistleblowers are safeguarded against dismissal, demotion, harassment, or academic penalties as a result of reporting misconduct.

3. Fair Investigation: All reported concerns will be investigated fairly and impartially.

4. Protection of the Accused: Any individual accused in a whistleblower complaint has the right to due process and a fair investigation.

5. Accountability: Individuals found guilty of ethical violations will be subject to appropriate disciplinary actions.

6. False Allegations: False or malicious reports will result in disciplinary action against the complainant.

Reporting Mechanisms

ANNU provides multiple secure channels for reporting concerns:

• Email: [email protected]

• Confidential Online Reporting Form 

• Anonymous Physical Submission

• Direct Reporting: Reports can be submitted to the Compliance Office or the Legal Affairs Office.

Procedures and Enforcement

Policy Implementation

University leadership, including department heads and deans, are responsible for ensuring that whistleblower protections are upheld across all university activities.

Investigation Process

1. Initial Review: The Compliance Office assesses the report for credibility and severity.

2. Investigation: If valid, an independent investigative team gathers evidence and conducts interviews.

3. Resolution & Corrective Actions: Based on findings, appropriate disciplinary or remedial actions will be taken.

4. Final Reporting: The whistleblower (if identified) may receive an update on the investigation outcome where legally permissible.

Reporting Violations

Any faculty member, staff, or student who believes their whistleblower rights have been violated may report the issue through established university channels. The university is committed to addressing such reports promptly and fairly.

Training and Awareness

ANNU conduct regular training and awareness programs to educate the academic community about whistleblower protections, reporting procedures, and ethical responsibilities.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with best practices in whistleblower protection and anti-corruption compliance. Amendments may be made as necessary to reflect changes in the legal and institutional framework.

 

Effective Date: May 17, 2022
Review Date: March 9, 2024