Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Policy
Al-Quds University – 2025
1. Introduction
Al-Quds University is committed to fostering a learning and working environment where equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) are fully embedded in all aspects of university life. We believe that a diverse and inclusive academic community enriches our educational mission and better prepares our students for the global challenges of the 21st century.
This policy reaffirms our pledge to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals regardless of their background, identity, or status and to actively challenge all forms of discrimination, marginalization, or exclusion.
2. Purpose and Scope
This policy applies to:
All students (undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education)
Academic and administrative staff
Visitors, contractors, volunteers, and partners
All university-owned or affiliated locations, services, and platforms
Its purpose is to:
Promote equal opportunities in all university functions
Prevent and eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimization
Foster a culture of inclusion, mutual respect, and participation
Ensure compliance with Palestinian laws and international human rights conventions
3. Protected Characteristics
Al-Quds University does not tolerate discrimination on the basis of (but not limited to) the following protected characteristics:
Age
Gender or Gender Reassignment
Disability (physical, mental, sensory, or learning)
Race (including ethnicity, nationality, or skin color)
Religion or Belief (or lack thereof)
Sexual Orientation
Marriage and Civil Partnership
Pregnancy and Maternity
Refugee and Asylum Seeker Status
We recognize that individuals may experience intersectional discrimination and are committed to responding sensitively and appropriately.
4. Policy Principles
Dignity and Respect: Every individual is entitled to a safe and supportive environment, free from hostility, bullying, or bias.
Equal Access and Opportunity: All university programs, services, and employment opportunities are accessible and equitable.
Accountability and Transparency: All incidents related to discrimination or bias are investigated promptly and fairly.
Collaboration: The university works closely with internal stakeholders and external partners to strengthen its EDI framework.
5. Implementation Areas
A. Academic Life
All programs must incorporate inclusive and culturally sensitive pedagogies.
Curricula should reflect diverse voices, global contexts, and environmental justice issues.
Assessment policies are reviewed regularly to ensure fairness and accessibility.
B. Admissions and Student Services
Admissions policies ensure fair consideration of applicants from all backgrounds.
Financial aid and scholarships are equitably distributed and include consideration for disadvantaged groups.
Mental health, disability, and learning support services are confidential and student-centered.
C. Employment and Workplace Culture
Recruitment, hiring, promotion, and professional development follow transparent, inclusive, and merit-based criteria.
Reasonable accommodations are provided for staff with disabilities.
Harassment or discrimination complaints are addressed promptly through established grievance channels.
D. Campus Accessibility
Al-Quds University is committed to making all facilities accessible to people with disabilities.
Ongoing infrastructure upgrades include ramps, elevators, accessible signage, and inclusive restrooms.
6. Governance and Oversight
The Office for Equity and Inclusion (OEI) is responsible for:
Implementing this policy and evaluating institutional performance
Offering training on unconscious bias, inclusive pedagogy, and accessibility
Facilitating conflict resolution, reporting, and investigations
The EDI Advisory Committee, comprised of students, faculty, and administrative representatives, meets bi-annually to review the policy and recommend improvements.
7. Training and Awareness
Annual EDI workshops are mandatory for all new employees and offered regularly to students and faculty.
All academic departments are encouraged to host events or discussions on inclusion and anti-discrimination.
A digital resource hub provides multilingual guidance on rights, responsibilities, and university support services.
8. Policy Review Cycle
This EDI Policy is reviewed every two years or sooner if legislative, institutional, or social developments require adjustments. All revisions will include consultation with diverse campus constituencies.
Next scheduled review: March 2027
9. Commitment Statement
At Al-Quds University, equality is not optional—it is foundational. We view diversity as a strength and inclusion as an active process that must be continuously cultivated. Through this policy and its implementation, we aim to ensure that every member of our university community has the opportunity to thrive.
- Introduction
We at Al-Quds University are dedicated to fostering an environment that promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We believe that these elements are integral to the academic and personal development of our community. This policy outlines our commitment to ensure respect, equal opportunities, and fair treatment for all.
- Equality Statement
We, at Al-Quds University, stand firm in our commitment to ensuring fair treatment and respect for all, actively combating discrimination and advancing equality of opportunity and fairness. In adherence to equality laws, public duties and Human Rights, we endeavour to provide a setting where diversity flourishes for staff, students, and visitors regardless of their ‘Protected Characteristics’. These include:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender
- Marriage
- Pregnancy and Maternity
- Race (color, ethnic or national background)
- Refugee and asylum seekers
- Religion or Belief
- Commitment to Equality
Our commitment to equality focuses on identifying and removing potential barriers that may prevent individuals from participating fully in our university community. We endeavour to provide the necessary support to empower each individual to achieve their potential, taking into account the impacts of our policies and practices on different groups.
- Assessing the Equality of Opportunity and Fairness
We commit to regularly assess our policies and practices to identify and address potential unfairness or inequality. Through these evaluations, we can enhance our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
- Responsibilities and Commitment
Every member of our community has a role to play in implementing this policy.
- Each individual is responsible for upholding the principles of equality and fairness, ensuring they neither incite nor ignore unfair or discriminatory behaviour.
- The University Regulation Committee is charged with ensuring the University meets its legal obligations for promoting equality and eliminating discrimination.
- The Director’s Office, responsible for University management, ensures these legal responsibilities are carried out throughout the University.
- The Director of Human Resources oversees policy implementation regarding staff and ensures appropriate equality and diversity inclusion training is provided.
- The Director of Student Services ensures policy implementation regarding students.
- Heads of departments are tasked with raising awareness of this policy and promoting equal opportunity within their spheres of influence.
- All staff and students are responsible for promoting equality and eliminating discrimination in adherence to the ‘Equality Statement’. Any discriminatory acts will be met with disciplinary action.
- Monitoring
We commit to a comprehensive monitoring system to evaluate this policy’s effectiveness. We will collect and analyse data on the experiences of staff and students to ensure equality and fairness in our University.
To maintain policy effectiveness, we will monitor and annually publish:
- Staff and student population profiles across the ‘protected characteristics’ listed in Equality Statement.
- Data on student applications, offers, acceptances, assessment results, drop-out rates, and degree awards
- Information on recruitment, selection, promotion, re-grading, and training participation
- Complaints, including harassment and bullying, grievances, and disciplinary proceedings
- Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment, and Supporting Policies
We take allegations of discrimination and harassment seriously. Any complaints contradicting this policy will be addressed confidentially and promptly through our established complaints procedure.
- Policy Review
To maintain the relevance of this policy, we will periodically review it, involving relevant stakeholders in any proposed changes.
Through this policy, Al-Quds University reiterates its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, valuing the unique contributions of each individual, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. We strive to create a respectful environment where individual potential is recognized and nurtured.