Partnerships with External Organizations Policy

Policy Statement

An-Najah National University is dedicated to fostering and sustaining formal partnerships with external organizations, companies, individuals, and local stakeholders. These partnerships are essential for advancing the university's mission, supporting community engagement, and contributing to regional and national development. By collaborating with diverse external entities, the university enhances its capacity to fulfill its strategic objectives, drive innovation, and create mutual benefits for all parties involved.

Purpose

This policy outlines the framework and procedures for establishing, maintaining, and evaluating partnership agreements with external organizations, companies, individuals, and local stakeholders. It ensures that these collaborations are strategically aligned, well-planned, and effectively executed, with clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and expectations. The policy also aims to foster transparent communication and accountability, ensuring that partnerships contribute positively to the university's goals and the wider community.

Scope

This policy applies to all university employees and staff involved in identifying, engaging, and managing partnerships with external organizations, companies, individuals, and local stakeholders. It encompasses partnerships related to research, education, community service, and other collaborative initiatives that support the university's mission and strategic priorities.

Principles

Partnerships established under this policy will adhere to the following principles:

1. Mutual Benefit: Partnerships must be based on mutual benefit, providing value to both the university and the external organization, company, individual, or local stakeholder.
2. Alignment with University Mission: All partnerships must align with the mission, vision, values, and strategic goals of the university, advancing its educational, research, and community service objectives.
3. Stakeholder Engagement: The university is committed to identifying and engaging with local stakeholders, including community groups, governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and industry partners. These stakeholders are vital collaborators in addressing local challenges and fostering sustainable development.
4. Transparency and Accountability: All partnership agreements must be transparent, with clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and accountability mechanisms. This includes regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the partnership continues to meet its objectives and serves the interests of all parties involved.
5. Risk Management: The university will assess and manage risks associated with partnerships, ensuring that they do not unduly expose the university to liability or reputational harm. Agreements must include provisions to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the interests of the university and its partners.
6. Autonomy and Decision-Making: The university and its partners must maintain their autonomy, with the partnership agreement allowing for independent decision-making. The university's ability to make future decisions must not be unduly restricted by any partnership.
7. Conflict of Interest: Partnerships must not involve or give the appearance of involving conflicts of interest for the university or its employees. Any potential conflicts must be identified, disclosed, and appropriately managed.
8. Resource Valuation: The value of university resources, including intellectual property, facilities, and expertise, must be recognized in partnership agreements. Proper valuation ensures that these resources are utilized effectively and responsibly.
9. Competition and Fairness: Partnership activities should not directly compete with the university's core functions. Where potential competition exists, agreements must include provisions to address and safeguard the interests of all parties.
10. Supervision and Distinction: University employees involved in partnerships must clearly separate their regular work duties from their roles within the partnership. Supervision and direction must be distinct to avoid conflicts and ensure clarity in responsibilities.

Procedures for Identifying and Engaging Stakeholders

1. Stakeholder Mapping: The university will regularly conduct stakeholder mapping exercises to identify relevant local stakeholders, including community organizations, industry partners, government agencies, and other entities that can contribute to or benefit from partnerships.
2. Engagement Framework: A structured engagement framework will be established, outlining the steps for initiating contact, building relationships, and formalizing partnerships with identified stakeholders. This framework will ensure that engagement is consistent, transparent, and aligned with the university's strategic goals.
3. Consultation and Collaboration: The university will actively consult with local stakeholders to understand their needs, interests, and capacities. Collaborative projects and initiatives will be developed based on these consultations, ensuring that partnerships are responsive to local contexts and contribute to shared goals.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation: All partnerships will be subject to regular monitoring and evaluation, assessing their impact, effectiveness, and alignment with university objectives. Feedback from stakeholders will be integral to this process, ensuring continuous improvement and adaptation of partnership strategies.

Effective Date: October 12, 2016

Review Date: Jun 20, 2024