Applied Science University’s Commitment to Inclusive Access (SDG 10.6.1)

SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) emphasizes equal opportunity and the elimination of discrimination. In the context of higher education, THE Impact Rankings indicator 10.6.1 evaluates whether universities have institutional policies guaranteeing access to all university activities – academic, co-curricular, and public events – for all people regardless of ethnicity, religion, disability, gender, or other characteristics. This report examines Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain and its formal commitment to non-discrimination and inclusive participation. It draws on ASU’s official policies, student handbooks, and documented events to assess alignment with national regulations and international standards on equality.

ASU’s Non-Discrimination Policy Framework

ASU has an “Equality and Diversity Policy” enshrined in its official student handbook and university regulations. The policy explicitly commits to creating an environment where differences are valued and equality of opportunity is ensured for “all staff, students, and any stakeholder” [1]. It delineates protected characteristics – attributes such as age, disability, marital status, pregnancy/maternity, race/ethnicity, religion or belief, and gender – that the University safeguards against unfair treatment [1]. In effect, ASU pledges to “eliminate discrimination against all national and international staff, students, and anyone associated with the University (e.g. visitors, contractors and service providers) regardless of [these characteristics]” [1]. The policy further makes clear that no forms of discrimination, harassment, or bullying are tolerated on campus [1].

This formal policy framework is comprehensive in scope. It not only defines unlawful discriminatory actions (“types of discrimination”) but also outlines responsibilities and grievance procedures. For instance, an international quality review in 2022 noted that ASU’s Equality and Diversity Policy “covers internal and external stakeholders, sets out types of discrimination, and defines protected characteristics,” applying to all members of the university community and associated parties [2]. Mechanisms are in place for reporting and addressing any violations, ensuring that the commitment to equality is not merely rhetorical but actionable. The policy’s inclusion in student and staff handbooks and its integration into HR and academic codes underscore that it is an institution-wide mandate rather than a standalone statement.

Scope of Policy Across University Activities

ASU’s non-discrimination policy is explicitly designed to cover all university activities and stakeholders. By mentioning “anyone associated with the University” including visitors [1], the policy ensures that university-sponsored events – such as open days, public lectures, workshops, and training sessions – are open and accessible to all without bias. In practice, this means that participation in any ASU event or program is not restricted by ethnicity, religion, gender, or disability. Whether one is an enrolled student, a staff member, or a visiting community participant, the same standards of equal access and respect apply.

Crucially, ASU’s commitment extends to admissions and campus accessibility, laying the foundation for inclusive participation in all activities. The University’s Admissions and Registration Manual aligns with the equality policy to “offer admission to competent students from the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf region, and beyond, irrespective of social, racial, and financial background” [2]. In line with this, ASU has a Special Needs Admissions Policy to accommodate students with disabilities or special needs. The policy states that “the University will admit all students who fulfil the admissions criteria and can be reasonably accommodated without posing any hardships to the University or the student” [3]. Only in extreme cases, where a particular need cannot feasibly be accommodated even after due adjustments, would alternative arrangements be considered [3]. This demonstrates that disability is not a barrier to accessing ASU’s programs or events, as the default approach is to find ways to include qualified individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, ASU’s campus infrastructure was designed to meet international standards and national regulations for accessibility – the building plan “considered… the Higher Education Council’s decision in 2007 regarding the requirements for higher education buildings and facilities” [3]. This implies features such as ramps, elevators, and other accommodations are in place so that people with mobility impairments or other disabilities can physically access classrooms, event halls, and all campus facilities.

In summary, ASU’s policy framework and operational guidelines ensure that every university-sponsored activity – from daily classes to special events – is governed by principles of equality and inclusiveness. The inclusion of external participants (such as contractors or visitors) in the Equality and Diversity Policy means that events like open days or public lectures must uphold the same non-discriminatory ethos. Should any individual feel these principles are violated, they have recourse through formal complaint channels. ASU’s student handbook confirms there is an effective mechanism for complaints, and the Equality and Diversity Policy itself “includes a complaints procedure” for addressing discrimination grievances [2]. This comprehensive coverage illustrates that ASU’s commitment to equal access is not limited to enrollment or employment, but indeed spans all interactions and activities under the university’s auspices.

Inclusive Participation in University Events and Programs

ASU staff and students celebrate Saudi Arabia’s National Day on campus, reflecting the university’s cultural inclusiveness and respect for diversity.

One of the strongest indicators of ASU’s commitment to equal access is the inclusive nature of its events and outreach programs. The University actively organizes and participates in events that celebrate diversity and promote the inclusion of underrepresented groups. These activities provide practical evidence that ASU’s non-discrimination policies are being translated into action.

-Disability-Inclusive Events

ASU’s Community Engagement Office has hosted events specifically aimed at empowering persons with disabilities and raising awareness among the campus community. For example, on the World Disability Day (Dec 2016), ASU organized a public ceremony titled “Disability is Not the End.” This event, held on campus in the university’s main hall, was patronized by the University President and attended by distinguished guests alongside students and staff [4]. Notably, the audience and participants included “a number of disability champions, personalities and associations of people with disabilities – including Bahrain Deaf Society, Bahrain Friendship Society for the Blind, Bahrain Mobility International, Down Syndrome Society, … as well as academic and administrative staff and students from the University” [4]. The program featured a reading from the Holy Quran by a blind reciter and a motivational lecture by a coach with a hearing impairment, alongside a film and performances involving students with disabilities [4]. By ensuring that people with disabilities were not just attendees but also key contributors (speakers, performers, filmmakers) in the event, ASU demonstrated an environment of true inclusion. The event explicitly aimed at “improving society’s perception about persons with disabilities,” sharing success stories of individuals who are deaf, blind, or have mobility impairments in various professional fields [4]. Such examples show that ASU’s venues and event formats are accommodating (e.g., accessible seating, sign-language or other aids as needed) and that disability is no barrier to full participation in university life – aligning directly with SDG 10’s goal of reducing inequalities.

-Gender-Focused and Women’s Empowerment Initiatives

ASU also fosters gender inclusion through events and policies that support women’s participation and leadership. The International Women’s Day is celebrated at ASU as a community event. On 8 March 2017, for instance, the Deanship of Student Affairs hosted a workshop for “all ASU women” to discuss “the role of women in scientific research,” as part of the International Women’s Day celebrations [4]. Senior female faculty members led discussions on research themes and women’s contributions to sustainable development goals [4]. Importantly, ASU’s top leadership visibly supports such initiatives – the President at the time, Prof. Ghassan Aouad, personally attended and commended the women participants. He “presented his great wishes to all women at ASU on International Women’s Day,” reaffirming that he “strongly supports and encourages all women at ASU to fulfil their full potential” [4]. This public endorsement from the university’s leadership underscores an institutional culture that values gender equality. In addition to campus events, ASU staff and students take part in national efforts that promote women’s empowerment. For example, ASU representatives joined the 3rd National Conference for Bahraini Women (under the patronage of HRH Princess Sabeeka) and have collaborations with the Supreme Council for Women in Bahrain [4]. Through such engagements, ASU aligns its activities with broader societal initiatives on women’s rights, ensuring that its female students and staff have equal access to opportunities ranging from academic projects to leadership development programs.

-Multicultural and Ethnic Diversity Programs

With a student body and faculty comprising over 30 nationalities, ASU prides itself on being “truly cosmopolitan with respect at the heart of how we deal with each other” [5]. This multicultural ethos is reflected in events that celebrate different national and cultural identities on campus. A striking example is ASU’s celebration of Saudi Arabia’s National Day. In 2024, the university organized the second annual “Dar Al-Saad” festival to mark the Saudi National Day, an event filled with cultural performances such as traditional Saudi dance and poetry recitals [6]. The festival was attended by ASU’s leadership, Saudi dignitaries, as well as Saudi and Bahraini students and alumni. ASU’s Chairman of the Board of Trustees emphasized that “this festival stems from the University’s keenness to share the national joys of [our] Saudi brothers,” highlighting that such celebrations reflect ASU’s commitment to cultural communication and unity between different communities [6]. He noted that sharing in a sister country’s national celebration is viewed as “an integral part of [our own] joy,” reinforcing a message of cross-cultural solidarity [6]. Likewise, the University’s President affirmed pride in organizing this festival as part of ASU’s social responsibility to the region [6]. By institutionalizing events like these, ASU ensures that students from different ethnic or national backgrounds feel seen, included, and respected. Beyond Saudi National Day, ASU routinely hosts international delegations and participates in multicultural forums. The University’s International Office and student clubs often arrange cultural exchange activities, and open days are designed to be welcoming to students of all backgrounds. (For instance, an ASU Open Day in 2017 attracted more than 200 pupils from diverse secondary schools across Bahrain, introducing them to the university in an inclusive setting [7].) The overall message is that no one is excluded from campus events on the basis of origin or ethnicity – rather, diversity is celebrated as an asset to the campus community.

-Religious and Belief Inclusion

Although a private secular institution, ASU operates in a religiously diverse society and is careful to respect freedom of belief. The Equality policy explicitly protects individuals from discrimination on grounds of “religion or belief” [1]. In practice, this is reflected in accommodating students and staff of various faiths. For example, major Islamic occasions are observed (the disability event began with verses from the Holy Qur’an [4]), yet the environment remains welcoming to non-Muslims (international students from various countries and faiths study at ASU). The academic calendar and exam schedules take into account religious holidays. While specific interfaith events at ASU are not highlighted in available sources, the prevailing culture of tolerance – “with respect being at the heart” of dealings on a diverse campus [5] – suggests that no one is barred or isolated due to their religious affiliation. This aligns with Bahrain’s ethos of religious coexistence and is reinforced by ASU’s own values of integrity and social responsiveness.

Through these examples, it is evident that ASU doesn’t merely have a written policy, but actively fosters an inclusive campus climate. Public events and community engagement programs are structured to be accessible and relevant to groups that might otherwise face exclusion. Women, people with disabilities, and international students (of various ethnicities and faiths) are not only given access but are often central to these university activities. This comprehensive approach demonstrates ASU’s alignment with Indicator 10.6.1, ensuring equal access for all to learning opportunities and campus life.

Alignment with National and International Standards

ASU’s institutional policies and practices on non-discrimination are in harmony with national regulations and international best practices:

-Alignment with National Policies (Bahrain)

Bahrain’s legal framework and national vision emphasize tolerance, equal opportunity, and social inclusion. ASU’s approach strongly reflects these principles. In a university newsletter, ASU noted that its culturally diverse environment – with members from over 30 nationalities – is “in line with the vision of HM the King to make Bahrain a Kingdom of peace, tolerance and co-existence.” [5]. This indicates conscious alignment with the country’s leadership stance on intercultural harmony. Moreover, the Higher Education Council (HEC) in Bahrain sets requirements to ensure institutions accommodate all students; ASU adheres to these, as seen in its campus design meeting HEC’s accessibility standards [3] and its admissions processes following HEC guidance [2]. Bahrain’s laws (e.g., Labour Law and Civil Service regulations) also prohibit discrimination based on gender, origin, religion, etc., and ASU’s Equality and Diversity Policy mirrors those protected categories [1]. The University’s collaboration with national bodies like the Supreme Council for Women and participation in events under the patronage of Bahraini officials further show a commitment to national anti-discrimination and inclusion objectives. In essence, ASU is working within and reinforcing Bahrain’s regulatory and cultural context of equality.

-Alignment with International Standards

ASU’s policies draw on globally recognized standards for non-discrimination in education and employment. The protected characteristics listed (age, disability, race, religion, gender, etc.) align with those found in international human rights instruments and the practices of UK partner universities (with whom ASU has collaborations). The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings themselves provide a framework, and ASU’s indicator submissions (as evidenced by content on its website and sustainability reports) highlight compliance with SDG goals. An International Quality Review conducted (by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency or a similar body) favorably observed that ASU’s Equality and Diversity Policy and related procedures ensure “equality and fair treatment without any discrimination towards all students, faculty and staff” [2]. ASU is also certified to ISO 21001:2018 (Educational Organization Management System), which includes commitments to inclusive and equitable quality education – a further testament that its management systems incorporate international best practices on accessibility and inclusiveness. Additionally, ASU’s student support for international students – “providing a diverse and inclusive community” so that they feel supported [8] – echoes UNESCO’s guidelines on inclusive education for international and minority students. ASU being listed as an approved institution by the Saudi Ministry of Education (mentioned in the Saudi festival context [6]) also implies that it meets regional criteria for non-discriminatory environments, since host countries vet the campus climate for their scholarship students abroad.

Overall, ASU’s alignment with national and international standards is clear. The University not only complies with local laws and guidelines but actively engages with global initiatives (such as the Sustainable Development Goals and quality assurance benchmarks) to continuously improve its inclusivity. This synergy between ASU’s policies and wider standards ensures that the goal of reduced inequalities (SDG 10) is pursued systematically.

Conclusion

Applied Science University – Bahrain has a robust institutional policy and culture that guarantees access to university activities for all, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, disability, gender, or other personal attributes. The official Equality and Diversity Policy provides a strong foundation by explicitly prohibiting discrimination and protecting various groups [1]. This commitment permeates all levels of university operations: admissions are merit-based and accommodating of special needs [3], campus facilities are designed for accessibility [3], and a broad range of university-sponsored events exemplify inclusion – from disability awareness days and women’s empowerment workshops to multicultural celebrations involving international communities. The evidence shows that these policies are not isolated statements but living principles evident in ASU’s daily academic life and public engagement.

By aligning its practices with Bahrain’s vision of a tolerant, inclusive society and meeting international standards, ASU upholds SDG 10.6.1 in letter and spirit. The University’s stakeholders – students, staff, alumni, and community partners – all benefit from an environment where diversity is respected and everyone is invited to participate fully in educational activities. In a region and world where inequality remains a challenge, ASU’s example demonstrates how a higher education institution can proactively reduce inequalities through policy, practice, and cultural ethos. The guarantee of equal access at ASU is not only a matter of compliance for rankings, but a reflection of its mission to “provide an exceptional educational experience and a diverse and inclusive community” for all learners [8], thereby contributing to a more equitable society.

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