First-Generation Students [Statics] (4.4)

Proportion and number of first-generation students starting and completing degree programs.

Introduction:

Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) is deeply committed to promoting social mobility, equity, and access to higher education by supporting first-generation students—those whose parents or guardians have not attained a university degree. Recognizing the unique challenges these students often face in navigating academic, social, and financial systems, the university implements targeted initiatives to ensure equal opportunity for admission, retention, and graduation.

Through its First-Generation Student Support Policy (PS_18_SDG04_4), AAU provides specialized mentoring, academic advising, and financial assistance programs to empower first-generation learners to succeed in their educational journey. Dedicated faculty mentors and the Deanship of Student Affairs, in cooperation with the Sustainability and International Ranking Center (SIRC), monitor the progress of these students to ensure equitable access to all academic and extracurricular opportunities.

In addition, the university organizes orientation programs, leadership training, and peer-support networks designed to enhance the confidence, engagement, and academic performance of first-generation students. Financial support mechanisms—including scholarships and tuition discounts—are also offered to reduce economic barriers and foster inclusivity in higher education.

By combining academic support, socio-economic inclusion, and continuous monitoring, AAU ensures that first-generation students not only enter university but also complete their studies successfully.

This institutional approach directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by advancing inclusive access, student success, and upward social mobility for all learners regardless of background.

Centers and Departments:

January
01

1. Sustainability and International Ranking Center (SIRC)

Monitors the implementation of policies and indicators related to equity, inclusion, and social mobility in higher education, ensuring alignment with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

January
01

2. Al-Ahliyya Amman Center for Consultations and Psychological Care

Provides continuous psychological and emotional support to students, particularly those facing social or academic adjustment challenges, such as first-generation students. The center offers counseling sessions, group workshops, and awareness programs that enhance students’ mental well-being, resilience, and academic performance.

By promoting psychological stability and inclusiveness, the center contributes to equal access to education and improved retention rates, supporting the university’s commitment to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

January
01

3. Deanship of Students Affairs

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4. Admission and Registration Department

The Admission and Registration Department at Al-Ahliyya Amman University ensures equal access and fair admission procedures for all students, including first-generation students entering higher education for the first time in their families.

The department provides personalized guidance, clear admission instructions, and continuous support throughout the registration process to help students adapt to university life.

By promoting transparency, inclusiveness, and student-centered services, the department directly contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) through facilitating equitable access and academic continuity for all learners.

January
01

5. Financial Department

The Financial Department at Al-Ahliyya Amman University plays a pivotal role in promoting equitable access to higher education, particularly for first-generation students who may face financial barriers to completing their studies.

The department manages scholarships, tuition installment plans, and need-based financial aid programs to ensure that all students—regardless of their socio-economic background—can pursue and complete their education successfully.

Through transparent financial policies and inclusive support mechanisms, the office contributes directly to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by fostering accessibility, affordability, and equal educational opportunities.

January
01

6. Career Guidance and Alumni Office

The Career Guidance and Alumni Office at Al-Ahliyya Amman University provides career development, mentoring, and employability training to all students, with special focus on supporting first-generation students in transitioning successfully into the job market.

The office offers workshops on CV writing, job interviews, networking, and entrepreneurship, in addition to organizing career fairs and internship placements.

By connecting education with employment opportunities, the office enhances social mobility and inclusion, ensuring that all students have equal access to career development resources.

This initiative directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Activities:

January
01

1. Activity: Career Day 2025 – Bridging Education and Employment

The Career Guidance and Alumni Office at Al-Ahliyya Amman University organized Career Day 2025 under the patronage of the Minister of Labor, bringing together more than 90 public and private sector institutions offering real employment opportunities for graduates and local job seekers.

The event aimed to enhance youth employability, bridge the gap between education and labor market needs, and support the economic empowerment of university students, especially first-generation graduates.

Through direct interaction with employers, workshops, and networking sessions, participants gained valuable insights into current market trends and career pathways.

This initiative reflects AAU’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility, inclusion, and sustainable employment, directly contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

January
01

2. AAU Students’ Participation in the National Nashama Youth Leadership Program

A distinguished group of students from Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) participated in the graduation ceremony of the 2nd Cohort of the National Nashama Youth Leadership Program, organized by the Ministry of Youth and the Center for Youth Leadership Development.

The program provided over 80 hours of intensive training in leadership, community initiative management, volunteering, communication, and entrepreneurship skills.

AAU’s participation reflects the university’s dedication to empowering youth, fostering leadership potential, and enhancing social inclusion through experiential learning.

This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to prepare students—especially first-generation learners—to become active, responsible, and innovative leaders contributing to sustainable national development.

The program directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

January
01

3. Employment of AAU Graduates at Global Company Zoho

The Career Guidance and Alumni Follow-up Office at Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) successfully facilitated the employment of six university graduates at Zoho, a leading global software company headquartered regionally in Dubai.

This achievement followed a Career Day event organized by the office, which included professional interviews, networking sessions, and career readiness activities.

The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to empowering its graduates—particularly first-generation students—by connecting them directly with regional and international job opportunities.

It also demonstrates the university’s proactive approach to bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world employment, fostering social mobility, and promoting equality in access to global careers.

This achievement directly supports SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through sustainable and inclusive employability initiatives.

January
01

4. AAU Graduation Ceremony 2025 – Celebrating Academic Excellence and Social Mobility

Al-Ahliyya Amman University (AAU) celebrated the graduation of the 32nd Cohort (Class of 2025), honoring students from all faculties, including Pharmacy, Nursing, Engineering, Architecture and Design, Information Technology, Allied Medical Sciences, and Agricultural Technology.

The ceremony highlighted the university’s continuous efforts to provide inclusive and high-quality education that enables all students — including first-generation learners — to successfully complete their studies and transition confidently into the labor market.

In his address, the Dean of Student Affairs emphasized AAU’s leading role in bridging the gap between education and employment through the launch of technical and applied programs such as Medical Device Technology, Game Development, Culinary Arts Management, and BTEC-accredited programs in Interior Design, Software Engineering, and Film & Television.

The event reflects AAU’s dedication to fostering academic excellence, employability, and equality of opportunity, directly contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

January
01

5. Artistic and Digital Excellence Scholarships for First-Generation Students

Al-Ahliyya Amman University launched the Artistic and Digital Excellence Scholarships Program (2025–2026) through the Faculty of Architecture and Design, offering up to 55% tuition fee reductions for talented students enrolling in creative disciplines such as Digital Architecture Engineering, Graphic and Interior Design, Game Development, and Digital Media Arts.

This initiative encourages first-generation and low-income students to access higher education by removing financial barriers and fostering creative excellence in rapidly growing digital industries.

The program promotes social mobility, inclusion, and empowerment, directly supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring equitable access to education for all.