Empowering Inclusion and Belonging
At An-Najah National University (ANNU), inclusion and equal opportunity are fundamental to our academic mission. The Mentoring, Counselling, and Peer-Support Programs form a cornerstone of the University’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and human development.
These initiatives ensure that every member of our community—students, staff, and faculty—has access to the guidance, resources, and networks needed to succeed, especially those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds such as low-income families, persons with disabilities, refugees and displaced individuals, women in STEM, and minority groups.
Our Purpose
The program was designed to foster belonging, confidence, and equal access to opportunity across all campuses. It combines three main pillars of support—mentorship, counselling, and peer-to-peer engagement—under a coordinated governance structure led by:
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee
Together, these entities ensure continuous monitoring, follow-up, and support for individuals who may face social, financial, or accessibility barriers during their academic or professional journey at ANNU.
Mentoring Programs
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Student Mentoring
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Each faculty assigns trained mentors—faculty members or senior students—to guide newcomers from underrepresented groups through their studies and campus integration.
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Mentoring focuses on academic success, study skills, emotional wellbeing, and professional readiness.
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Mentors meet regularly with mentees during key weeks of the semester (weeks 3, 7, and 12) and report progress to the Deanship of Student Affairs.
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Faculty and Staff Mentoring
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Newly appointed or early-career faculty, particularly women and researchers with disabilities, are paired with experienced academic mentors who support them in teaching excellence, research productivity, and leadership development.
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The Human Resources Department also provides coaching sessions on inclusive leadership, promotion readiness, and work-life balance.
Counselling and Wellbeing Services
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Student Counselling
The Student Counselling & Social Supervision Unit provides professional, confidential psychological support to help students manage stress, trauma, and personal challenges.
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Certified counsellors offer one-on-one and group sessions.
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Specialized programs assist refugee and displaced students, ensuring psychosocial stability and academic retention.
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Annual wellbeing campaigns and workshops raise awareness about mental health and inclusion.
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Staff and Faculty Counselling
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The Employee Wellbeing Program, coordinated by HR, provides counselling, conflict mediation, and career-development advice.
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Sessions focus on enhancing job satisfaction, managing workload, and improving interpersonal communication in a multicultural environment.
Peer-Support Networks and Communities
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Student-Led Networks
ANNU’s vibrant student life fosters unity and cultural exchange through inclusive associations such as:
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The Samaritan Students Association
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The Christian Students Association
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The Jerusalem Students Association
These groups organize academic tutoring, volunteer activities, and cultural events that encourage respect, empathy, and solidarity among students of diverse backgrounds.
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Staff and Faculty Networks
The Employees’ Union plays a vital role in promoting teamwork and equity by coordinating professional development circles, social engagement activities, and cross-departmental mentoring exchanges that strengthen collaboration and inclusion across the university.
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Accessibility and Disability Support
The Disability Support Office (DSO) ensures that students and staff with disabilities receive the support they need to excel:
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Individual mentoring and academic guidance.
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Access to assistive technologies and learning accommodations.
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Coordination with local NGOs and the General Union of Persons with Disabilities to maintain inclusive infrastructure and awareness campaigns.
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Support for International Students
The Arabic for Non-Native Speakers Institute offers linguistic and cultural integration programs that help international students feel at home.
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Peer mentors support language practice, social inclusion, and adaptation to university life.
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Orientation workshops introduce students to campus services, community engagement, and academic opportunities.
Initiatives
From a wheelchair to the world of creativity, a will that knows no impossible
Art that transcends the limits of sight
Empowering staff with disabilities in international academic engagement