Introduction

Al-Ahliyya Amman University, has a proud history of working closely with its ethnic tribal communities, Displaced peoples, Minority communities, those with disabilities, low income people to drive increased participation and attainment among underrepresented groups in higher education. At Al-Ahliyya Amman University we value Access, Inclusiveness & Diversity and take active steps to provide an inclusive environment for students, staff and visitors irrespective of their age, disability, gender re-assignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief (non-belief), sex and sexual orientation.

The Access, Inclusiveness & Diversity Office at Al-Ahliyya Amman University independently and thourgh international partner programs take initiatives and activities that increase access and improve the retention and completion rates of students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds within higher education - primarily targeting individuals from refugee community, ethnic minority groups, local tribes and low socioeconomic (Low SES) etc.

Mission

• Ensure that all members of our university community have equal opportunities to succeed and thrive.
• Promote a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated in all its forms, including race, gender, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic background, and more.
• Provide leadership on policies and practices related to equity, inclusion, and human rights across the university.

Key Functions

• Advising University Leadership The Diversity and Equality Office works closely with the university's administration and governing body to develop, review, and implement policies, initiatives, and training programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the campus community.
• Diversity and Inclusion Training The office organizes regular workshops, training sessions, and seminars aimed at raising awareness and fostering understanding of diversity and inclusion issues among students, staff, and faculty. These sessions are designed to build knowledge on cultural competency, anti-discrimination, and equitable practices.
• Policy Development and Oversight We are responsible for the development and enforcement of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, ensuring that all university practices align with the principles of fairness and equality. This includes overseeing policies related to admissions, recruitment, and student support.
• Support for Underrepresented Groups The office ensures that underrepresented groups—such as ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ students, disabled students, and low-income students—receive the support they need to succeed. This includes providing access to resources such as mentoring, counselling, and peer support programs.
• Monitoring and Reporting The office regularly monitors the effectiveness of diversity and inclusion programs and reports on progress towards meeting diversity-related goals. We gather feedback from students, staff, and faculty to ensure that all voices are heard and that policies are working as intended.

Key Programs and Initiatives

• Diversity Awareness Campaigns Our office leads awareness campaigns to educate the campus community about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. These campaigns focus on celebrating diverse cultural traditions, addressing stereotypes, and fostering respect for all members of our community.
• Inclusive Recruitment Practices The office works closely with admissions and human resources to ensure that our recruitment processes are inclusive, targeting underrepresented groups to ensure diversity in our student body, faculty, and staff.
• Student Resource Programs We offer dedicated support for students from diverse backgrounds, including financial aid, counselling services, and peer support programs to create an inclusive academic environment for all.

How to Get Involved

We encourage all students, staff, and faculty to engage with the Diversity and Equality Office and participate in our programs, training sessions, and events. Together, we can contribute to building a campus that is not only diverse but also a true representation of equity and inclusion.

Join a Committee or Initiative: Become part of our ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusion by volunteering for one of our initiatives or joining a working group focused on diversity-related issues.

Contact Us: If you have any questions or suggestions about our diversity and inclusion programs or policies, feel free to reach out to our office. We are here to support you and help create a more inclusive environment at AAU.