Equality and Non-Discrimination Policy

AAUP is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment that promotes equality, diversity, and non-discrimination. This policy outlines our dedication to creating a campus community that respects the rights, dignity, and worth of every individual, irrespective of their race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, religion, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic. AAUP strives to ensure equal access, opportunities, and treatment for all members of our university community.

AAUP is dedicated to the following principles and standards for equality and non-discrimination:

1. Equal Opportunity:
   • AAUP provides equal opportunities for admission, employment, program participation, and advancement to all individuals, irrespective of their background or protected characteristics.
   • AAUP maintains inclusive policies and practices that foster a diverse and representative campus community.
      
2. Non-Discrimination:
   • AAUP prohibits all forms of discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, origin, gender, religion, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic.
   • AAUP ensures that all university activities, including recruitment, hiring, admissions, student services, and academic programs, are free from discriminatory practices.
      
3. Harassment Prevention:
   • AAUP maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and other forms of discriminatory behavior.
   • AAUP provides clear guidelines, reporting mechanisms, and support services to address complaints of harassment promptly, confidentially, and impartially.
      
4. Accessibility and Accommodations:
   • AAUP strives to provide accessible facilities, technologies, and services that accommodate the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities.
   • AAUP ensures reasonable accommodations and support services for students, faculty, staff, and visitors with disabilities to enable their full participation in university life.
      
5. Education and Awareness:
   • AAUP promotes education, training, and awareness programs that foster an understanding of equality, diversity, and non-discrimination.
   • AAUP encourages respectful dialogue, cultural competence, and the celebration of diverse perspectives and experiences.
      
6. Complaints and Grievance Procedures:
   • AAUP establishes clear and transparent procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving complaints of discrimination or harassment.
   • AAUP provides support, guidance, and protection against retaliation for individuals who raise concerns or file complaints.
      
7. Review and Continuous Improvement:
   • AAUP regularly reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of this policy and related practices to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and best practices.
   • AAUP actively seeks feedback from the university community and engages in ongoing dialogue to improve our efforts toward equality and non-discrimination.​
      

To ensure the successful implementation of this Equality and Non-Discrimination Policy, AAUP will:

1. Designate the VP for academic affairs to oversee the implementation, communication, and monitoring of this policy.
    
2. Develop and distribute comprehensive guidelines, procedures, and resources that align with this policy to promote understanding and compliance.
    
3. Conduct regular training and awareness programs for students, faculty, staff, and administrators on equality, diversity, and non-discrimination.
    
4. Establish mechanisms for reporting and addressing complaints of discrimination or harassment, ensuring confidentiality, fairness, and prompt resolution.
    
5. Provide appropriate resources and accommodations to individuals with disabilities, in compliance with applicable accessibility laws and regulations.
    
6. Regularly review and update policies and practices to ensure alignment with changing laws, societal expectations, and best practices in equality and non-discrimination.
    

The following measures (indicators) can be used to assess the utilization of this policy:

1. Diversity in Admissions: Percentage of students from diverse backgrounds admitted to the university.
    
2. Equal Opportunities in Education: Percentage of students accessing academic and extracurricular opportunities irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or other factors.
    
3. Inclusive Campus Environment: Survey results on students' perception of an inclusive and non-discriminatory campus environment.
    
4. Anti-Discrimination Training: Percentage of faculty, staff, and students who have participated in anti-discrimination training programs.
    
5. Resolution of Discrimination Complaints: Average time taken to address and resolve discrimination complaints, if any.
    

VP for Academic Affairs

Deanship of Admission and Registration
Deanship of Students’ Affairs