Employment Matters Policy

Policy Statement
In alignment with An-Najah National University’s mission, this policy outlines the development, implementation, and adherence to employment policies that comply with all applicable laws. It governs the administrative processes for discipline or termination, the employee grievance procedure, and faculty-related matters including retention, promotion, discrimination, and tenure decisions. The policy is designed to uphold the University's commitment to fairness, equity, and legal compliance in all employment matters.

Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide clear guidance to academic staff and employees of An-Najah National University regarding the policies, regulations, and procedures related to employment. This policy serves as a reference for understanding the legal framework within which employment decisions are made, ensuring transparency and consistency across the University.

Scope
This policy is applicable to all members of An-Najah National University, including faculty, administrative staff, and support personnel. It encompasses all aspects of employment, providing a consistent approach to managing employment-related issues within the University.

Principles
An-Najah National University is committed to fostering a work, learning, cultural, and social environment rooted in dignity, respect, and inclusivity. To achieve these goals, the University upholds the following principles:

1. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The University is fully committed to adhering to all employment laws and labor regulations, ensuring that all employment practices are lawful, ethical, and in line with national and international standards.
2. Fair Compensation Practices: The University is committed to applying the provisions of Palestinian Labor Law No. (7) of 2000 and implementing Palestinian Prime Minister’s Office Decision No. (121) dated 23/08/2021, concerning the minimum monthly and daily wages for employees. The university is also committed to providing fair wages that align with local economic changes, ensuring a decent life for all its employees.
3. Pay Scale: The university is dedicated to maintaining gender equity in pay scales, following the directives of the unified staff of Palestinian universities as issued by the Palestinian Higher Education Council.
4. Diversity and Inclusion: The University prioritizes the recruitment and protection of outstanding students, staff, and faculty from underrepresented groups, reinforcing its commitment to diversity and inclusion across all levels of the institution.
5. Prevention of Exploitation: The University is committed to the eradication of forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor. It implements strict measures to prevent any form of exploitation within its operations and collaborates with external entities to promote ethical labor practices.
6. Flexible Working Arrangements: Recognizing the evolving nature of work, the University promotes telecommuting and remote working options under specific conditions, supporting work-life balance while maintaining operational efficiency.
7. Flexible Work Schedules: Employees may request to work a condensed work week (e.g., four 10-hour days) or adjust daily work hours, subject to departmental needs and approval. This flexibility aims to accommodate personal needs while ensuring that the University’s operations continue to run smoothly and effectively.
8. Protection of Vulnerable Groups: The University upholds the highest standards in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, ensuring that all interactions and activities within the University environment are conducted with the utmost care and responsibility.
9. Intellectual Property and Legal Compliance: The University is committed to full compliance with laws and regulations concerning intellectual property, copyright, and trademark matters, safeguarding the rights of creators and innovators within the academic community.
10. Commitment to Continuous Improvement: The University continuously reviews and updates its employment policies to align with changes in legislation, best practices, and the evolving needs of its workforce, ensuring that its employment framework remains robust, transparent, and equitable.

Effective Date: October 12, 2016

Review Date: Jun 24, 2024