Applied Science University (Bahrain) – Non-Discrimination Policy and Gender Equality Initiatives (SDG 5)

Applied Science University (ASU) in Bahrain demonstrates a formal commitment to gender equality and non-discrimination in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality). This report reviews ASU’s official policies prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, highlights university-led events promoting women’s rights, and provides examples of women in leadership roles at ASU. These elements reflect ASU’s alignment with THE Impact Rankings SDG 5 criteria, which emphasize equal opportunity, women’s empowerment, and gender equity in education.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Policies at ASU

ASU Bahrain explicitly prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender through its official policies and handbooks. The Student Handbook contains an “Equality and Diversity Policy” affirming that the university is “fully committed to promoting equality of opportunity and fairness” and to eliminating discrimination against all members of the university community regardless of characteristics such as gender [1]. In practice, this means that no form of gender-based discrimination, harassment, or bullying is tolerated on campus [1]. Such policy statements, which also encompass equal opportunities in admissions and employment, ensure that women and men are treated equitably in all university programs and activities. By codifying gender equality in its regulations, ASU upholds an environment of inclusion consistent with SDG 5’s aim to “end all forms of discrimination against women and girls”.

University Initiatives Promoting Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

Speakers at ASU’s College of Law seminar on Bahraini Women’s Day discuss women’s legal rights in social insurance and political participation.

Beyond policy, ASU actively promotes women’s rights and awareness through events, seminars, and community engagement activities. Notable examples include:

-Bahraini Women’s Day Seminar (College of Law) –

As part of Bahrain’s national Women’s Day celebrations, ASU’s College of Law organized an academic seminar highlighting the crucial role of Bahraini women in national development. The seminar featured talks on women’s political rights in Bahrain and on women’s rights in pension and social insurance laws [2]. A lively discussion with students and faculty followed, underlining a strong awareness of women’s contributions to society [2]. This event illustrates ASU’s engagement in national dialogues on women’s legal rights and empowerment.

-International Women’s Day Workshop (Deanship of Student Affairs) –

On March 8, 2017, ASU celebrated International Women’s Day by hosting a workshop on “the role of women in scientific research” for all ASU women [3]. Female faculty group leaders (Dr. Faiza Zitouni, Dr. Horiya Aldeeb, Dr. Ahlem Al-Ithawi, and Dr. Camelia Camel) presented research initiatives focused on women’s contributions to sustainable development [3]. The university President also marked the occasion by expressing his strong support and encouragement for all women at ASU to “fulfill their full potentials” [3]. Such annual events demonstrate ASU’s commitment to recognizing women’s achievements and encouraging female participation in academia and research.

These initiatives foster a campus culture that values women’s rights and gender equality. By engaging students, staff, and the broader community in these conversations, ASU contributes to SDG 5 targets on promoting women’s participation and leadership in public life and education.

Women in Leadership and Administrative Roles at ASU

Women at ASU Bahrain hold significant leadership and administrative positions, reflecting the university’s equal opportunity ethos. Examples of female leadership at ASU include:

-Dr. Faiza Zitouni –

Served as the Dean (and previously Acting Dean) of Student Affairs. In this capacity, Dr. Zitouni chaired the Deanship of Student Affairs, overseeing student life and welfare [4]. (She has also advanced to roles such as Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, further exemplifying women’s representation in top management.)

-Ms. Noora Musalam –

Manager of the Career Development and Alumni Affairs Office (under the Deanship of Student Affairs). Ms. Musalam has led alumni engagement initiatives – for example, coordinating the Alumni Reunion event – as part of ASU’s efforts to support graduates [4]. Her role showcases women’s leadership in student and alumni support services.

-Dr. Hooreya (Horiya) Aldeeb –

Director of the Community Engagement Office in the College of Administrative Sciences. In this director role, Dr. Aldeeb spearheads community outreach programs on behalf of the university [5], ensuring that ASU remains connected to societal needs and upholds social responsibility (an area closely tied to empowering women in the community).

-Mrs. Ruqaya Mohsin Mahmoud –

Director of Communication and Public Affairs at ASU. Mrs. Ruqaya Mohsin leads the university’s public relations and communications strategy [5], serving as a key figure in promoting ASU’s image and initiatives. Her leadership position in a high-profile administrative department underlines the presence of women in ASU’s decision-making circle.

These examples confirm that women occupy roles such as deans, office directors, and department heads across academics and administration at ASU. The inclusion of women in governance and management is directly aligned with SDG 5.5, which calls for ensuring women’s full participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in institutions.

Conclusion

Applied Science University – Bahrain upholds a formal non-discrimination policy that explicitly protects women’s rights and equal opportunities, and it actively advances gender equality through educational events and inclusive leadership practices. The university’s codes and handbooks confirm that no discrimination on the basis of gender is tolerated on campus [1]. ASU further reinforces this commitment by hosting seminars on women’s legal rights, celebrating occasions like International Women’s Day, and empowering women to hold leadership positions within its administration and faculty. These actions collectively demonstrate ASU’s alignment with the values of SDG 5: Gender Equality, as the institution works to eliminate gender-based discrimination, promote women’s empowerment, and provide an inclusive environment for women to thrive academically and professionally [1] [3]. Such an integrated approach – spanning policy, practice, and representation – underscores ASU Bahrain’s dedication to gender equality in higher education.

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