Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

Introduction:

The University of Oum El-Bouaghi has adopted a policy of EDI regarding its community; it is bound and determined to develop a peaceful and harmonious blend of human textures environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. The EDI policy encourages diversity and aims to remove all differences within the university community in order to promote cultural inclusion that celebrates individuals’ differences from diverse backgrounds. It is worth saying that all of this happens under Protected Characteristics as outlined below.

Protected Characteristics:

The EDI policy draws upon the following main protected characteristics:

• Age: A fair treatment of all age categories in order to contribute to their personal and professional development and recognize the value of diverse experiences and perspectives across generations.
• Gender Equality: The university provides equal access to education and opportunities to prove oneself for male and female students.
• Disability: The University strives to remove barriers by offering accessibility to ensure equal participation for individuals with disabilities. Adaptive environment, accommodations, and supportive services have been established in order to facilitate mobility, studying, and working conditions for the disabled members of the university community, and more importantly to empower them and help them see themselves as normal people.
• Race: All forms of racial discrimination are rejected within the community. An atmosphere of acceptance, tolerance, and cooperation has always been advocated and promoted.
• Religion or Belief: The university wholeheartedly accepts different religious beliefs. The members of the community freely practice their religion without any fear or any form of persecution or hateful discourse. 
• Marriage and Legal Civil Partnership: Members of the university community benefit from their full rights regardless of their marital status.
• Refugee and Asylum Seekers: The University extends its commitment towards inclusion and support to refugees and asylum seekers. It provides a safe and supportive environment where their unique experiences and perspectives are valued and fosters their integration and academic success.
• Pregnancy and Maternity: Understanding the status of pregnant women, of those who have recently given birth, or are on maternity leave by facilitating the working conditions for them. They are supported and provided with appropriate accommodations to enable their full participation in university life.
• Implementation and Support:
• Raising awareness, understanding, and respect for EDI are actively reiterated through training programs, workshops, and educational initiatives for the members of the university community.
• Establish clear procedures for reporting and addressing incidents of discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment related to protected characteristics, and provide support and guidance to those affected.
• Regular review and assessment of practices, and procedures to ensure they align with our commitment to EDI for seeking continuous improvement and responding to the evolving needs of our diverse community.
• Actively collaborate with student-led societies, external organizations, and stakeholders to create a supportive and inclusive environment that reflects the values of equality, diversity, and inclusion.