SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Underrepresented Inclusion and Support at the University

Our university is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all underrepresented groups are respected and valued.

We recognize that diversity enriches our academic community, promotes innovation, and prepares all members to thrive in a global society.

By embracing the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals from various backgrounds—including those who are stateless —we strive to create a campus culture where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.

This commitment extends supporting staff members who are stateless, ensuring their full participation and sense of belonging within the university community.

This approach is in line with our university’s core values of respecting every staff member and treating all staff with dignity, respect, and integrity.

The following benefits and support are provided to underrepresented groups at the university:

Inclusion of staff who are stateless in all university policies, benefits and resources.
Support for staff members who are stateless to comply with the government regulations and requirements.
Access to confidential counselling and well-being services tailored to the needs of minority staff.
Opportunities for professional development and leadership training to ensure equal access to career advancement.
Staff recognition program to highlight the contributions of minority staff within the university community.
Job stability and long-term employment opportunities are provided to staff members who are stateless.

Our university continuously reviews and expands its support systems to ensure that all staff, regardless of background or circumstance, have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

We encourage ongoing feedback from all staff to help shape and improve our inclusion initiatives.

The university is committed to cultivating a genuinely welcoming and supportive environment for all members of its community.

By upholding these principles, we aim not only to meet but to exceed the standards of equity and inclusion, setting a positive example for other institutions. Together, we can build a university where diversity is celebrated, and every individual is empowered to reach their full potential.

Disability Inclusion and Support at the University

At our university, disability inclusion and support are central to our mission and values.

We warmly welcome students and staff with disabilities and are deeply committed to their welfare, well-being, academic and professional growth.

The Australian University – Kuwait (AU) exceptional campus, thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse needs of our students. Our commitment to inclusivity shines through offering facilities suitable for individuals with learning differences, ensuring that every member of our community enjoys equitable access to a high-quality education. Below are some examples of the facilities AU offers to support individuals with differences:

AU allocate number of parking slots to accommodate the visitors, staff, and students.
Buildings are equipped with wheelchair ramps and elevators for those with mobility challenges.
Specialized desks and workstations for students with disabilities
AU campus has a special Lab for Learning differences students.
Each of our building includes restrooms with clear designations for people with differences.
Dedicated Computer lab for Learning differences students, these devices are loaded with special operating system. It offers several accessibility features and assistive technologies for users who are visually impaired.

We recognize that staff with disabilities may face unique challenges in the workplace. To address this, our university is dedicated to identifying and removing barriers physical, social, and institutional, that could hinder participation and success. Discrimination on the basis of disability is not tolerated, and we actively promote a culture of respect, dignity, and equity.

Staff with disabilities are valued members of our community and are fully supported to ensure equal opportunities and a discrimination-free workplace. AU Recruitment Ads for call center agents specifically targeting people with disabilities.

The following accommodations are provided to staff with disabilities:

Wheelchairs are readily available at each building to ensure easy mobility and accessibility for staff with disabilities.
Ramps are installed at key locations throughout the campus to provide barrier-free access for staff with mobility challenges.
Specially designated parking spots are provided close to building entrances for the convenience and accessibility of staff with disabilities.
Golf carts are available to transport staff with disabilities across the campus, ensuring easy and efficient movement between buildings.
Accessible restrooms, meeting rooms, and break areas are provided to ensure full inclusivity and convenience for staff with disabilities.
Flexible work arrangements and adjusted schedules, including variable start and end times, are available to accommodate staff needs.
Ergonomic workstations with adjustable desks, chairs, or specialized equipment are provided to reduce strain and support staff with physical needs.
Additional breaks are allowed for staff who require them due to medical or disability-related needs.
Emergency evacuation plans include clear communication strategies tailored to ensure the safety of staff with disabilities.
Quiet rooms or sensory spaces are available for staff with disabilities who require breaks from sensory stimulation.

Additionally, the University provides reduced and/or flexible workload for certain period for medical and mental issues provided an official medical report to support the case

Our university is always working to better support staff with disabilities by providing the resources and opportunities they need. The ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion demonstrates appreciation for their contributions to the university community.

For students specifically, AU offers the Center of Learning Differences (CLD) services. AU believes in the fundamental principle that all students have the right to an equal opportunity to education. CLD is committed to the ongoing support and development of students, ensuring a culture that promotes inclusivity and access to appropriate support. CLD focuses on students who have a recognized disability and ensures the facilitation of provisions covered by the Rights of People with Disabilities – State of Kuwait (Law Number 8 in 2010). Therefore, students are entitled to reasonable academic adjustments as per “AU Students with Disabilities and or Learning Differences Policy and Procedure”, and “AU Assessment Accommodations Procedure”, to help them overcome any difficulties caused by their condition.

Below pictures show accessibility layout drawings for AU Campus. Each one marks the location and specifications of ramps, accessible (disabled) toilets, and parking lots in different AU Buildings. Together, they document how AU provides barrier-free access from arrival (parking) through campus (ramps) to facilities (toilets).