Maternity and Paternity Policy
Purpose
This policy outlines the maternity and paternity leave entitlements and associated benefits for staff at An-Najah National University. The primary aim is to support parents in balancing their work and family responsibilities, ensuring a healthy equilibrium between career and family life.
Scope
This policy applies to all full-time and part-time employees at An-Najah National University, including academic and administrative staff, regardless of gender, position, or tenure.
Maternity Leave
Eligibility
Female employees who are pregnant and have been employed at An-Najah National University for at least six consecutive months are eligible for maternity leave.
Duration
Maternity leave is granted for:
- 90 calendar days for full-time employees.
- 70 calendar days for part-time employees.
Leave may commence before childbirth if medically necessary or at the employee’s discretion. In the case of complications or premature birth, additional leave may be granted with medical documentation.
Pay During Maternity Leave
Eligible employees will receive full pay for the entirety of the maternity leave period. If additional leave is required, it may either be deducted from the employee’s accrued leave balance or taken as unpaid leave, depending on the employee's preference and availability of leave.
Return to Work
Employees returning from maternity leave are entitled to resume their previous position or a comparable position with the same terms, conditions, and salary. If further leave is required beyond the initial maternity leave due to medical complications, a medical certificate must be submitted for additional leave approval.
Breastfeeding Breaks
Upon returning to work, mothers are entitled to one paid break of 60 minutes per day to breastfeed or care for their child. The employee may choose whether to take this break in the morning or afternoon. This benefit continues until the child reaches one year of age.
Paternity Leave
Eligibility
Male employees who have been employed at An-Najah National University for at least six consecutive months and whose spouse has given birth are eligible for paternity leave.
Duration
Paternity leave is granted for 3 to 5 consecutive working days, to be taken within the first month following the birth of the child.
Pay During Paternity Leave
Paternity leave is provided with full pay, but the leave will be deducted from the employee's annual leave balance.
Notice and Documentation
Maternity Notice
Employees must provide at least 8 weeks' written notice of their intended maternity leave start date. A medical certificate confirming the pregnancy and the expected delivery date must be submitted alongside the notice.
Paternity Notice
Employees must provide at least 2 weeks' written notice of their intended paternity leave start date. A copy of the child's birth certificate or a letter from a medical professional confirming the birth must be submitted.
Job Security and Benefits
Job Protection
Employees returning from maternity or paternity leave will retain their job position or an equivalent role, with no reduction in salary or benefits.
Annual Leave Accrual
Employees on maternity or paternity leave will continue to accrue annual leave entitlements throughout the duration of their paid leave.
Healthcare Benefits
Employees on maternity and paternity leave will continue to have access to all health insurance and related benefits during their leave.
Flexible Working Arrangements
Upon returning from maternity or paternity leave, employees may request flexible working arrangements, such as part-time hours or modified work schedules, to assist in the transition back to work. The university will accommodate these requests whenever feasible, provided they do not interfere with operational needs.
Discrimination and Harassment
Non-Discrimination
An-Najah National University strictly prohibits discrimination against any employee for taking maternity, paternity, or parental leave. Any complaints of discrimination will be addressed in accordance with the university’s anti-discrimination policy.
Harassment-Free Workplace
The university is dedicated to maintaining a workplace free from harassment. Any reports of harassment related to pregnancy, childbirth, or parental responsibilities will be investigated thoroughly and addressed in accordance with university policies.
Review and Amendments
This policy will be reviewed every two years or as necessary. An-Najah National University reserves the right to amend this policy at any time after consultation with relevant employee representatives.
Effective Date: October 12, 2022
Review Date: Jun 18, 2024