Empowering Inclusion and Belonging
At An-Najah National University, inclusion and equal opportunity are central to our academic mission. Our mentoring, counselling and peer-support programmes help every member of our community, students, staff and faculty alike, find the guidance, care and networks they need to succeed. Particular attention is given to those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, including students from low-income families, persons with disabilities, refugees and displaced persons, women in STEM fields and members of minority communities.
How our support is organised
Support for underrepresented groups is coordinated across several University units, each with a clear role:
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Deanship of Student Affairs: academic guidance, student counselling, social support and student activities.
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Disability Support Office (DSO): individual support, accommodations and advocacy for students and staff with disabilities.
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Human Resources Department: guidance, development and support for staff and faculty.
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Committee: oversight, monitoring and coordination of inclusion efforts across the University.
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UNESCO Chair on Human Rights, Democracy and Peace: awareness and training on human rights, equality and inclusion.
Together, these units identify individuals who face social, financial or accessibility barriers and follow up with them throughout their academic or professional journey at the University.
Mentoring
Academic mentoring for students
Every student is assigned an academic advisor from their department who guides them through their study plan, course choices and academic progress. Students from underrepresented groups, and those facing academic or personal difficulties, receive closer follow-up and are referred to the relevant support services when needed. Before students even arrive, the University’s guidance programmes help secondary school students, including those from marginalised areas, choose the right programme for their abilities and ambitions. Read more
Mentoring for staff and faculty
New and early-career staff and faculty are supported by experienced colleagues and heads of department as they settle into their roles, and the Human Resources Department provides guidance on career development and professional growth. Staff and faculty from underrepresented groups, including women and persons with disabilities, are encouraged and supported to take part in training, research and international academic opportunities.
Counselling and wellbeing
Counselling for students
The Deanship of Student Affairs provides confidential psychological and social counselling to help students cope with stress, trauma and personal challenges. Counsellors offer individual and group sessions, and awareness activities throughout the year promote mental health and inclusion. This support is especially important for students affected by displacement, loss and the difficult conditions created by the occupation and the war.
Support for staff and faculty
Staff and faculty can turn to the Human Resources Department for guidance and support on workplace matters, including career development and the resolution of difficulties at work, in line with the University’s Anti-Discrimination and Employment policies.
Peer support networks
Student networks
Student associations bring together students from minority and specific communities and give them a space to support one another, including:
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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 associations organise tutoring, volunteering and cultural activities that strengthen solidarity, mutual respect and a sense of belonging.
Students with disabilities also lead awareness and peer-support activities of their own. In December 2025, they organised the event “Because We Are Here: Hear From Us, Not About Us”, sharing their experiences and success stories to promote their full inclusion in university life. Read more
Staff networks
The Employees’ Union represents University staff, follows up on their concerns and organises social and professional activities that strengthen collaboration and a sense of community among employees.
Support for students and staff with disabilities
The Disability Support Office serves more than 200 students with visual, physical and hearing disabilities, providing:
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Individual mentoring and academic guidance.
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Assistive technologies and learning accommodations.
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Financial support through a dedicated Fund for Students with Disabilities.
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Cooperation with national and regional partners, including the General Union of Persons with Disabilities and the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, to strengthen services and awareness. Read more
Support for international students
The Arabic for Non-Native Speakers Institute helps international students settle into university life through language and cultural integration programmes, orientation workshops and peer mentors who support their language practice and social inclusion.
Initiatives in action