1- Introduction
The University of Al-Maarif (UoA) upholds the fundamental principle of equality, respect, and inclusivity for all members of its academic community. In alignment with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), UoA has established a comprehensive Non-Discrimination (Transgender Inclusion) Policy to ensure that every student, faculty member, and staff member—regardless of gender identity or expression—is treated with dignity, fairness, and full respect.
This policy is designed to foster a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where transgender and gender-diverse individuals can study, work, and participate freely in university life without fear of bias, exclusion, or harassment.
2. Policy Purpose and Scope
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Affirm the university’s commitment to non-discrimination and gender inclusion.
- Provide clear guidelines to prevent and address discrimination or harassment based on gender identity or expression.
- Promote awareness and understanding of gender diversity within the university community.
- Ensure equitable access to educational, employment, and leadership opportunities for transgender individuals.
This policy applies to all university members, including students, faculty, administrative staff, contractors, and visitors participating in university-sponsored activities.
3. Policy Statement
The University of Al-Maarif prohibits any form of discrimination or unequal treatment based on gender identity, gender expression, or transition status in all aspects of academic, social, and professional life.
All individuals have the right to:
- Be addressed by their chosen name and preferred pronouns.
- Access facilities and services that correspond to their gender identity, including restrooms, housing, and sports facilities.
- Participate in academic programs, extracurricular activities, and employment on an equal basis.
- Expect confidentiality and privacy regarding gender identity and transition-related information.
4. Institutional Responsibilities
To implement this policy effectively, UoA commits to:
- Establishing a Gender Inclusion Committee under the Deanship of Student Affairs to oversee and monitor policy enforcement.
- Conducting training and awareness workshops for faculty, staff, and students on gender identity and inclusive practices.
- Updating university records and systems to recognize chosen names and gender identities.
- Integrating inclusive language in all official university communications and documents.
- Providing counselling and psychological support services to transgender students and staff through the Center for Psychological Care.
5. Complaint and Resolution Mechanism
Any individual who experiences or witnesses discrimination, bullying, or harassment based on gender identity or expression may file a confidential complaint through:
- The University Ethics Office
- The Human Resources Department (for staff and faculty)
- The Student Affairs Office (for students)
Complaints will be investigated promptly, impartially, and with full confidentiality. Disciplinary action will be taken against any individual or group found to have violated this policy.
6. Awareness and Education
UoA promotes ongoing awareness initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and respect for gender diversity, including:
- Educational seminars and open dialogues on gender inclusion.
- Participation in national and international gender equality campaigns.
- Distribution of educational materials addressing misconceptions about transgender identities.
These efforts aim to create a culture of empathy, acceptance, and informed awareness across the university community.
7. Monitoring and Evaluation
The Gender Equality and Inclusion Office conducts annual evaluations of this policy’s implementation, focusing on:
- The level of inclusion and participation of transgender individuals.
- The effectiveness of awareness and training programs.
- The responsiveness of grievance mechanisms.
- Recommendations for continual improvement.
Findings are documented in the Annual Gender Equality Report, presented to the University Council.
8. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
UoA recognizes that inclusion is a dynamic process requiring regular reflection and adjustment. The university commits to continuously reviewing and updating this policy in accordance with national regulations, international best practices, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
