Ahlia University and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Ahlia University (Bahrain) is deeply committed to Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) , both on campus and in the broader community. This comprehensive report (2019–2024) highlights the university’s policies, initiatives, and evidence demonstrating its commitment to inclusion, equal opportunity, and social equity. It is structured in line with Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings requirements, covering governance, student and staff support, outreach, and outcomes.

Policy Framework for Inclusion and Non-Discrimination

Institutional Policies: Ahlia University maintains robust policies that promote inclusion and prohibit discrimination on any basis – including ethnicity, nationality, gender, disability, religion, socioeconomic background, or refugee status . The university’s Equity and Diversity Policy explicitly ensures a respectful, discrimination-free environment for all students and staff, “regardless of race, color, gender, religion, nationality, sect or disability,” upholding fairness and equity in all decisions ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Harassment or intimidation is strictly forbidden, and an Anti-Harassment Policy is enforced to protect community members ahlia.edu.bh . These policies align with Bahrain’s anti-discrimination laws and global human rights principles.

Equal Opportunity Governance: Since 2017, Ahlia has institutionalized oversight of inclusion through an Equal Opportunity Committee (EOC) chaired by the University President ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The EOC’s purpose is to “mainstream the culture and practice of equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusivity across the University” in line with national Vision 2030 and the SDGs ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The committee advises on inclusive policies and monitors implementation. Under its guidance, Ahlia formulated an Equal Opportunity Plan with clear aims and initiatives focusing on gender equality, diversity, and a supportive environment (e.g. empowering women, work-life balance policies, and partnerships for inclusion) ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . University core values – excellence, inclusiveness, integrity, collegiality, ambition, and engagement – reinforce this commitment ahlia.edu.bh .

Admissions and Recruitment: Ahlia’s policies guarantee equal opportunity in student admissions and staff hiring. Admission is merit-based and the “most qualified candidates – regardless of race, color, gender, religion, nationality, sect or disability – will be selected” , ensuring no bias in enrollment ahlia.edu.bh . The admissions policy was revised to focus on inclusiveness and offer equal access to all learners , explicitly eliminating any gender bias or unnecessary barriers ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Likewise, staff recruitment and promotions are based solely on qualifications and merit, with a stated policy of equal employment opportunity and fairness in hiring, task allocation, evaluation, and compensation ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Managers are expected to uphold these principles so that women, international candidates, and underrepresented groups have an equitable chance at all positions ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These measures ensure Ahlia’s workforce and student body are selected without discrimination or favoritism.

Support for Students and Staff with Disabilities (People of Determination)

Inclusive Education: Ahlia University is recognized as a welcoming place for people of determination (persons with disabilities), providing extensive support services and accessible facilities. The campus is equipped with accessible classrooms, assistive technologies, and tailored resources to accommodate students with various disabilities ahlia.edu.bh . Students with special needs receive individualized accommodations and academic counseling, ensuring they can fully participate in learning and campus life on an equal basis with others ahlia.edu.bh . A dedicated Special Needs Admission and Support Policy guides these efforts (e.g. a special admissions committee assesses each differently-abled applicant’s potential and needs ahlia.edu.bh ), and a Special Needs Committee was established to oversee the welfare and inclusion of students with disabilities ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This committee, along with the Directorate of Student Counseling & Advising, provides continuous guidance to students and staff with disabilities.

Facilities and Services: Over 2019–2024, Ahlia invested in infrastructure and services to improve accessibility – from physical modifications (ramps, elevators, signage) to digital accessibility tools. For example, sign-language interpretation was enhanced by introducing a “Signed Language” elective course open to all students to promote communication with deaf individuals ahlia.edu.bh . This course educates students in sign language and fosters an inclusive campus culture. Additionally, the university partnered with the Bahrain Parents & Friends of the Disabled Society on a recycling campaign (“Do Not Bin It, Donate It”) that collected over 1.6 tons of plastic to fund two custom wheelchairs for individuals in need ahlia.edu.bh . Such initiatives not only provide assistive devices but also raise awareness among students about disability inclusion and environmental responsibility.

Outcomes and Recognition: Ahlia’s long-term commitment to special needs inclusion is reflected in its outcomes. Over the past two decades, the university has successfully graduated more than 300 students with special needs , many with inspiring success stories in their academic and professional lives ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . By “empowering people with special needs” through higher education, Ahlia has demonstrated that a disability-inclusive approach yields high-achieving alumni who contribute significantly to society ahlia.edu.bh . In September 2024, Ahlia organized the Second Forum on Integrating Students with Special Needs in Higher Education , under the patronage of Bahrain’s Speaker of Parliament ahlia.edu.bh . This national forum brought together government officials, educators, and researchers to share best practices on supporting students with disabilities. At the forum, Ahlia’s leadership highlighted Bahrain’s effective model of integrating students with special needs and advocated for “increased research and academic focus” on challenges faced by individuals with determination ahlia.edu.bh . Recommendations from the forum included calls for greater governmental and community support, stronger legislative frameworks, and specialized training programs for educators to improve disability inclusion ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These efforts underscore Ahlia University’s role as “a beacon of special needs integration in higher education,” actively sharing successful practices and continuously enhancing support for this underrepresented group ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

Financial Aid and Scholarships for Low-Income and Disadvantaged Students

To ensure that no student is left behind due to financial barriers, Ahlia University offers a robust suite of scholarships, discounts, and financial aid programs targeting low-income, marginalized, and high-need students. These initiatives make higher education affordable and inclusive:

• General Scholarships and Need-Based Aid: Ahlia provides a range of scholarships for both outstanding academic performers and students with financial need . These awards can cover up to 100% of tuition or provide partial funding (typically 10%–50% fee remissions) so that students can complete their studies without undue financial burden ahlia.edu.bh gotouniversity.com . The university collaborates with government and private sponsors to fund scholarships and grants, expanding access for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This commitment was especially crucial during the COVID-19 crisis, when Ahlia introduced a new “Frontline Heroes” scholarship for frontline healthcare workers and their dependents as a form of social support ahlia.edu.bh .
• Special Targeted Scholarships: Several financial aid programs are tailored to vulnerable groups (see Table 1 ). Notably, all students with disabilities admitted to Ahlia receive a 50% tuition fee discount for the duration of their studies ahlia.edu.bh . Similarly, orphans registered with relevant governmental charities are granted a 50% tuition waiver , in line with Ahlia’s community engagement mission ahlia.edu.bh . These policies, formalized in the student financial aid handbook, were strengthened through an official 2021 agreement with the Royal Humanitarian Foundation to streamline aid to orphaned students ahlia.edu.bh . In addition, high-achieving students from underprivileged schools can benefit from merit-cum-need scholarships (such as the Riyada Scholarship Program), which not only provide funding but also include mentorship, training sessions, internships, and cultural activities to enhance recipients’ personal development ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Outreach Scholarships (International & Others): To promote diversity and opportunity, Ahlia launched initiatives offering scholarships to students outside Bahrain. For example, 50 scholarships were offered to international students regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or nationality , encouraging applicants from conflict-affected or low-income countries to study at Ahlia ahlia.edu.bh . This outreach aligns with Bahrain’s support for stateless and refugee education in the region, ensuring no nationality or status is a barrier to accessing Ahlia’s programs. Table 1 summarizes key financial support programs and their beneficiaries.

Table 1. Key Scholarship and Financial Aid Programs (2019–2024)

Through these financial aid programs, Ahlia University has mitigated socioeconomic inequalities in access to education. As a result, many students from low-income families, as well as those with refugee or stateless backgrounds, have been able to enroll and graduate during 2019–2024. This directly supports SDG 10.2 (empowering and promoting the social, economic inclusion of all) and SDG 1 (no poverty) by removing financial obstacles to higher education.

Outreach to Refugee and Stateless Communities

While Bahrain has a limited refugee population, Ahlia University’s inclusive policies ensure that refugee or stateless students are not left behind. The university does not discriminate based on nationality or legal status ahlia.edu.bh , meaning that any qualified student, regardless of citizenship or refugee status, may be admitted and considered for financial aid. In practice, Ahlia’s international scholarship programs have welcomed students from conflict regions and refugee backgrounds by offering them funded study opportunities in Bahrain ahlia.edu.bh . This provides life-changing educational access for youth who lack a stable nationality or homeland.

Moreover, Ahlia engages with global networks focused on at-risk scholars. It participates in academic collaborations and conferences highlighting migration and inclusion. For instance, Ahlia has partnered with institutions like Brunel University London for conferences on equal opportunities, where issues of displacement and inequality are discussed by international experts ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Although no specific refugee scholarship is singled out in Ahlia’s documentation, the combination of open admissions, diversity scholarships , and supportive campus services means refugees or stateless persons can thrive at Ahlia. The university’s stance echoes Bahrain’s broader humanitarian initiatives and aligns with SDG 10.7 (facilitating orderly, safe migration and mobility). Ahlia will continue exploring partnerships with organizations like UNHCR and local charities to outreach to refugee learners, ensuring education for all regardless of status.

Promoting Diversity, Intercultural Understanding and Inclusion

International Students and Faculty: Ahlia University prides itself on a multicultural campus. Students of over 40 nationalities study at Ahlia (2019–2024), fostering intercultural exchange. The university consistently ranks among the top in the Arab region for international outlook ahlia.edu.bh . To actively recruit and include international students, Ahlia offers a safe, welcoming environment in Bahrain’s friendly culture ahlia.edu.bh. The International Relations Directorate provides guidance with applications, visa and immigration paperwork for every admitted foreign student, streamlining their entry and enrollment ahlia.edu.bh . Comprehensive pre-arrival support means that once a student receives an offer, Ahlia’s team helps secure their student visa within weeks, handling government liaison on the student’s behalf ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This robust support has enabled students from the Middle East, Africa, Asia and beyond to join Ahlia without bureaucratic hurdles.

To ease cultural transition, Ahlia organizes orientation programs and cultural immersion activities . For example, as part of its study abroad and exchange offerings, the university runs a 5-day “Entrepreneurs Across Borders” program for visiting and local students, featuring cultural tours, site visits, and joint projects ahlia.edu.bh . This program allows international participants to learn about Bahrain’s history and culture while collaborating with Ahlia students, thereby promoting mutual understanding ahlia.edu.bh . Additionally, the university’s Deanship of Student Affairs holds intercultural workshops, festivals, and events celebrating the diverse ethnic and national backgrounds on campus. These include international food days, cultural exhibitions, and seminars on global issues – all of which “celebrate cultural diversity and promote understanding among students from different backgrounds” ahlia.edu.bh. By fostering a climate of respect and curiosity, Ahlia ensures students of any nationality or belief feel at home.

Faculty Diversity and Inclusion: Ahlia’s faculty recruitment is likewise international and diversity-oriented. The academic staff includes experts from numerous countries, and hiring is strictly based on merit (with no bias regarding origin or gender) ahlia.edu.bh . This diversity in faculty brings a richness of perspectives to the classroom and serves as role modeling for inclusivity. The university also invites visiting professors and researchers through partnerships – for instance, the joint doctoral programs with Brunel University bring UK-based faculty to work with Ahlia students ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . All new faculty and staff undergo an induction that covers the university’s code of conduct and inclusive values, and many participate in training workshops on inclusive teaching practices (as part of professional development). Such training is often embedded in Ahlia’s Teaching and Learning Excellence Policy, which emphasizes connectivity, global citizenship, and sensitivity to diversity ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This prepares faculty to work effectively in diverse classrooms and to accommodate different learning needs or cultural contexts.

Campus Life and Integration: The result of these efforts is a vibrant, inclusive campus climate. International and local students collaborate in student clubs, research projects, and community service, learning from each other’s experiences. Ahlia’s Model United Nations club and other student societies provide forums for intercultural dialogue and global awareness. Surveys indicate that students appreciate the “non-discrimination, diversity and quality” of the environment, which reflects a “fair and transparent environment to all” ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This is evidenced by strong satisfaction ratings from students of various backgrounds. By 2024, Ahlia had significantly increased its international student intake and also hosted short-term study abroad programs for dozens of students from partner universities, with tuition-free exchanges that deepen international exposure ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The university’s Living in Bahrain guides and cultural orientation sessions ensure families and students from abroad smoothly integrate into the local community.

Training and Awareness on Inclusive Practices

Ahlia University understands that policies alone are not enough – continuous training and awareness are critical to truly embed inclusive practices. During 2019–2024, the university conducted several training programs and campaigns:

• Staff Development Workshops: The Human Resources and EOC organized workshops for faculty and staff on topics such as “inclusive teaching strategies,” “unconscious bias in academia,” and “supporting students with disabilities.” These sessions, often led by experts or through partnerships (e.g. UN programs, IEEE accessibility training), helped build staff capacity to implement the university’s inclusivity goals ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . For instance, following the 2024 Special Needs Forum, Ahlia has been developing “specialized training programs tailored for…individuals with determination” and for the educators who support them ahlia.edu.bh . This includes training faculty to accommodate different learning needs and training administrative staff in accessible customer service. Such efforts ensure that everyone from professors to frontline staff are equipped to uphold Ahlia’s equal opportunity standards.
• Student Sensitization and Peer Support: Ahlia encourages student-led inclusion initiatives. The Student Counseling & Advising Directorate trains student volunteers as peer mentors, who help newcomers (including international and differently-abled students) navigate campus life. There are mentoring programs where senior students from underrepresented groups guide juniors, fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, counseling services are available and publicized to all students, offering support for those facing social or economic challenges ahlia.edu.bh . These counselors provide guidance on personal issues, mental health, and academic skills, thereby leveling the playing field for students who might otherwise struggle (first-generation students, students from less privileged schools, etc.). Ahlia also hosted sessions like “Interview Skills Mastery” with industry partners (e.g. Zain Bahrain) as part of the GROW program , to build soft skills in students from all backgrounds and boost their confidence in professional settings ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Awareness Campaigns and Conferences: In line with its Equal Opportunity Plan (Initiative 3), Ahlia ran awareness campaigns each year to champion equal opportunity principles ahlia.edu.bh . These included campus events on International Women’s Day, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, World Refugee Day, etc., where students and staff engage in discussions, pledge support for inclusion, and celebrate diversity. The university’s flagship academic event – the Annual Equal Opportunities Conference – serves as both a scholarly and public awareness platform. Co-hosted with Brunel University, this conference attracts local and international speakers to discuss topics like gender equality, social inclusion, and the impact of global crises on inequality ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . For example, the 2022 conference (6th edition) focused on “sustainable leadership and technology innovation management,” touching on SDGs 5 (Gender Equality) and 10, and featured United Nations representatives who underscored the importance of research in informing inclusive policy ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The outcomes of such conferences are shared with policymakers and feed into national efforts to advance equal opportunities ahlia.edu.bh . By hosting and participating in these knowledge-sharing events , Ahlia not only trains its own community but also contributes to broader societal awareness on reducing inequalities.

Gender Equality and Equal Opportunity Initiatives

Promoting gender equity is a central pillar of Ahlia University’s drive to reduce inequalities (linked closely with SDG 5). The university has made significant strides in women’s empowerment among students and staff:

• Women’s Leadership and Participation: Since its inception, Ahlia has championed women’s empowerment , evident in the high representation of women across the university. Female students participate in all programs, including STEM fields, and the university encourages women to take on leadership roles in student councils and clubs. On the staff side, women have risen to prominent positions – from department heads to deans – thanks to equitable hiring and promotion practices. Ahlia’s leadership emphasizes that empowering women and integrating their needs in development is a “bright sign in advanced societies” , and strives to be a model organization for women’s advancement ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Policy Reforms for Gender Equity: During 2019–2024, Ahlia introduced progressive policies benefiting female students and employees. For example, admissions policies were reviewed for gender neutrality (ensuring no bias against women applicants) ahlia.edu.bh . The university also implemented family-friendly work policies: paternity leave was extended beyond the legal minimum, acknowledging shared caregiving responsibilities ahlia.edu.bh , and a formal “Period of Care” policy now allows female employees flexible hours for childcare without pay reduction ahlia.edu.bh . Moreover, Ahlia established a Workload Reduction policy for women pursuing PhDs , reducing teaching loads to facilitate doctoral studies ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Combined with a budget for staff development, this policy enabled several female staff to obtain PhDs with university support, directly contributing to their career progression ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Such initiatives have been crucial in retaining and promoting women in academia .
• Women’s Empowerment Outcomes: The Equal Opportunity Committee conducted a self-evaluation of women’s empowerment at Ahlia (covering 2016–2020) and reported substantial progress. By 2020, women comprised nearly 49% of Ahlia’s total staff , exceeding the target set in the strategic plan【27†】. The share of women in faculty positions (especially in STEM disciplines) reached ~35%, reflecting improved gender balance in traditionally male-dominated fields【27†】. Women also increased their representation in management and governance roles. Ahlia facilitated this by providing professional development and upskilling programs to redress gender imbalances ahlia.edu.bh. For instance, the university sponsored multiple female faculty to pursue doctoral degrees (with 6 female staff earning PhDs by 2020 through Ahlia’s funding, including 4 in STEM areas【27†】).
• Recognition and Culture: Female students and researchers at Ahlia have excelled, indicating an empowering academic culture. In 2023, women secured all the research awards at the university’s Fourteenth PhD Symposium (a joint program with Brunel) ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This achievement, celebrated in local media, highlighted the “excellence and distinction exhibited by Bahraini women” in advanced research ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Ahlia’s administration frequently recognizes and publicizes such successes, reinforcing positive role models. Regular events like the Annual Women in Business Forum, leadership workshops for female students, and networking sessions with the Supreme Council for Women (Bahrain’s national women’s body) have further cemented gender equality on campus. The empowering environment is reflected in outcomes such as high female student graduation rates and strong employment of female graduates in the workforce.

By embedding gender equity in its operations and culture, Ahlia contributes to reduced inequalities (SDG 10) and gender equality (SDG 5) simultaneously. The university’s progress was acknowledged nationally; Ahlia is often cited as a leading institution in Bahrain for women’s empowerment and equal opportunities ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .

Equity in Academic and Professional Development

Ensuring equitable access to academic and professional growth for all students and staff is another hallmark of Ahlia’s strategy:

• Student Academic Support: Ahlia recognizes that students come from varied academic backgrounds. The university’s academic advising system and remedial programs help bridge gaps for students from under-resourced schools or first-generation college students. For example, additional tutoring is offered in key first-year subjects to those who need it. The Student Success Center (under Deanship of Student Affairs) runs skill workshops (study skills, language support) disproportionately benefiting students from disadvantaged prior education. “Supportive community and counseling services” are in place to ensure every student can thrive academically and personally ahlia.edu.bh . During the pandemic, Ahlia’s special steering committee and continuity plan ensured all students – regardless of home internet or device access – could continue learning via loaned laptops and data subsidies ahlia.edu.bh . This proactive approach prevented widening any digital divide among students in 2020–21.
• Internships and Career Development: All students, including those from vulnerable groups, have equal opportunities in internships and placements. Ahlia’s Career Counseling office actively seeks internship positions for students and tracks that 100% of interested students secure an internship before graduation . Programs like the Riyada Scholarship mentioned earlier combine financial aid with internship placements and training sessions , which particularly benefit low-income scholars by giving them professional exposure ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Additionally, initiatives like the Free International Summer Courses (launched 2023) allow selected students to study abroad for short courses at partner universities with tuition and accommodation fully covered by Ahlia ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . In Summer 2023, for instance, 5 Ahlia postgraduate students (men and women) attended a sustainability summer school at University of Bradford at no cost beyond travel ahlia.edu.bh . By removing financial and social barriers to such enriching experiences, Ahlia ensures equitable access to global learning and career growth for its students.
• Staff Professional Development: The university similarly invests in staff development with an equity lens . As part of its strategy to retain qualified staff, Ahlia allocates an annual budget for continuous professional development (CPD) for all academic and administrative staffahlia.edu.bh. Every staff member is encouraged to upgrade their qualifications (many pursue Master’s or PhDs part-time with tuition discounts ahlia.edu.bh ) and to attend conferences and training. For example, Ahlia’s PhD Support and Progression policy grants paid leave and funding for staff to attend conferences or pursue doctoral research ahlia.edu.bh . By 2024, dozens of staff had benefited from this, including junior faculty from underrepresented groups. The university tracks participation to ensure no group is excluded from development opportunities – whether by gender, nationality or job grade. The result is a highly competent and diverse faculty body where promotions and advancements are based on merit, and where women and international staff have equal representation in professional development activities.
• Fair Evaluation and Remuneration: In line with its equity policy, Ahlia maintains transparent and fair processes for performance evaluation, promotions, and salary decisions. Annual performance reviews are standardized, and any discrepancies by gender or other factors are analyzed and addressed. The university’s Staff Handbook explicitly mandates fairness in “task allocation, compensation, performance evaluations, and administration of benefits” ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . During 2019–2024, Ahlia found no significant gender pay gap in equivalent positions – a testament to its equitable HR practices. Furthermore, representation of various groups in decision-making is ensured (e.g. faculty committees have a mix of national and international members, male and female members, etc., often approaching gender parity【27†】). This inclusive approach in governance gives all staff a voice and opportunity to influence the university’s direction.

Through these multifaceted efforts, Ahlia University guarantees that academic and career progression are attainable for all members of its community. Students from marginalized backgrounds and staff from historically underrepresented groups have the same shot at success as anyone else. This helps reduce inequalities within the institution and prepares graduates to succeed in the labor market, thereby reducing inequalities in society.

Monitoring Representation and Outcomes

Ahlia University actively tracks representation and outcomes by demographic groups to measure progress and identify any disparities:

• Data Collection: The Statistical Support Unit collects data each year on student demographics (gender, nationality, disability status, etc.), graduation rates, and staff composition. These statistics are reported to university leadership and inform policy updates. For instance, data on the proportion of students with disabilities, orphans, and first-generation students are monitored to assess the reach of Ahlia’s inclusion programs. The Equal Opportunity Committee also gathers data on gender indicators – such as percentage of women in faculty, student gender ratios in each college, and women’s participation in training – to evaluate the impact of gender equity initiatives ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh .
• Annual Reporting: The university produces an annual SDGs progress report (internally and for external audiences). Notably, “the University’s journey towards the UNSDGs is annually assessed and reported” and shared via the UN SDG Commitment platform ahlia.edu.bh . These reports for 2020–2023 (available on Ahlia’s website) include metrics relevant to SDG 10. For example, the reports highlight the increase in special needs students enrolled, the number of scholarships awarded to low-income students, and diversity metrics like number of nationalities on campus ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . Comparisons over the 2019–2024 period show steady improvement, such as a rise in international student percentage and a maintained 50:50 gender ratio in student intake.
• Performance in Rankings: Ahlia’s success in reducing inequalities has gained external recognition. In the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings , Ahlia University was ranked 14th worldwide for SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) in 2021 , and improved to 17th worldwide in 2022 ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh – consistently placing 1st in Bahrain. This ranking is based on measured evidence such as inclusion policies, student diversity, scholarships offered, and outreach. Ahlia’s high position globally underscores the effectiveness of its strategies in tackling inequalities. The university was also 13th worldwide for SDG 4 (Quality Education) in 2021 ahlia.edu.bh , indicating that quality and equity go hand in hand. These accomplishments were celebrated in local media and even noted by the United Nations – Bahraini news highlighted that the “United Nations lists Ahlia University as a partner in achieving SDGs 2030” ahlia.edu.bh.
• Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Aside from quantitative data, Ahlia gathers qualitative feedback from its community about inclusivity. Student surveys and focus groups are conducted on topics like campus climate and support services. Feedback from students with disabilities, for example, has led to further improvements in classroom accessibility and exam accommodations. The Equal Opportunity Committee’s awareness surveys (part of Initiative 3 of the EO Plan) measure how well faculty, staff, and students understand and embrace diversity principles ahlia.edu.bh . Results from 2019–2024 showed increased awareness and positive attitudes year over year, demonstrating cultural change. Whenever gaps are identified (e.g. if a certain demographic is underrepresented in a program), Ahlia formulates action plans. One such action was the launching of women in STEM initiatives after data showed lower female enrollment in some IT and engineering programs; by 2024, those efforts yielded a higher intake of female STEM students, narrowing the gender gap.

Through rigorous monitoring and transparent reporting, Ahlia University holds itself accountable to SDG 10 goals. This data-driven approach ensures that commitments translate into real outcomes and that the university can showcase tangible evidence of reduced inequalities in its community.

Community and Global Engagement for Social Inclusion

Ahlia University’s impact on reducing inequalities extends beyond campus through community outreach and global engagement activities:

• Local Community Programs: Ahlia’s Community Engagement Unit leads numerous projects that support underprivileged groups in Bahrain. For example, Ahlia annually hosts the “Productive Families Exhibition” in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development, providing a free marketplace for around 15 low-income entrepreneurial families (mostly women) to sell their handmade products on campus ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . This event, held in March 2023, helped these families gain income and exposure, aligning with Ahlia’s social responsibility aims. The university has also collaborated with charitable societies (e.g. Janusan Charitable Society) to offer free training courses to community members. In 2023, a consultative meeting with MPs and NGOs praised Ahlia’s partnership in “teaching and training a number of students from the Bahraini community” through such associations ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . These trainings often target unemployed youth or those who missed formal education, thereby improving their skills and inclusion in the economy.
• Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) Partnership: As mentioned, Ahlia’s agreement with RHF streamlined scholarship support for orphaned studentsahlia.edu.bh. But beyond financial aid, Ahlia engages RHF and similar organizations in broader initiatives – e.g. volunteering campaigns where Ahlia students mentor orphans in school subjects and IT skills. The university’s stance of being “friendly to orphans” ahlia.edu.bh is operationalized through these mentorship programs and annual charity drives (fundraising for orphan care). This fosters empathy among the student body and directly benefits a marginalized group.
• Global Partnerships and Knowledge Sharing: Ahlia contributes to global efforts on inclusion through academic partnerships. The Ahlia–Brunel partnership not only provides joint programs but also co-hosts the Equal Opportunity conferences and doctoral symposiums which focus on inclusive development topics ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . International experts, including UN officials, have participated and commended Ahlia’s research contributions to social policy ahlia.edu.bh . Furthermore, Ahlia is an active member of international networks such as the World Technology Universities Network (WTUN) , where its students won a first prize in 2022 for a sustainability project ahlia.edu.bh . By excelling in such networks, Ahlia ensures that discussions on sustainability always incorporate equity and inclusion perspectives. The university also regularly engages with the Higher Education Academy and Quality Assurance bodies to adopt best practices in inclusive education.
• Media and Advocacy: Ahlia leverages media to advocate SDG 10 values. Its leadership (Founding President Prof. Abdulla Al-Hawaj and President Prof. Mansoor Alaali) frequently speak on national media about the importance of inclusive education. For instance, on Bahrain TV’s “Inside Edition”, Prof. Al-Hawaj announced Ahlia’s commitment to all 17 SDGs and highlighted inclusion as a core value ahlia.edu.bh . Likewise, news outlets have covered Ahlia’s initiatives like the special needs forum and equal opportunities conference, spreading awareness in the community. This positions Ahlia as a thought leader on social inclusion in higher education. The university’s bilingual outreach (Arabic and English) ensures the message of reduced inequalities reaches a wide audience in Bahrain and beyond ahlia.edu.bh .

Overall, Ahlia University’s community engagement projects and global collaborations amplify its impact on reduced inequalities. By supporting marginalized groups locally (people with disabilities, orphans, low-income families) and sharing knowledge internationally, Ahlia contributes to building a more inclusive society in line with SDG 10. Its approach exemplifies the idea that universities can be anchors of social equity in their communities.

Conclusion

In summary, between 2019 and 2024 Ahlia University has demonstrated a strong, evidence-backed commitment to Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) through comprehensive policies and proactive initiatives. The university has institutionalized inclusion via policies (non-discrimination, equal opportunity, disability support), governance structures (EOC, Community Engagement Committee), and data monitoring. It has leveled the playing field for students and staff by providing financial aid to those in need, ensuring accessible education for people of determination, empowering women and other underrepresented groups, and fostering a diverse, welcoming campus for all nationalities and backgrounds. Programs such as scholarships for low-income and special needs students, internships and training for disadvantaged youth, international exchanges, and community charity partnerships all serve as concrete evidence of reducing inequalities in practice.

The impact of these efforts is visible in Ahlia’s diverse student body, inclusive culture, and improved outcomes (e.g. high graduation rates across demographics, women’s academic achievements, 300+ graduates with disabilities). External validations – from top-tier SDG Impact Rankings to recognition by UN agencies – further attest to Ahlia’s success in this domain ahlia.edu.bh ahlia.edu.bh . The university not only meets the THE Impact Rankings criteria for SDG 10, but exceeds them by embedding social inclusion in its DNA.

Going forward, Ahlia University remains dedicated to continuously improving equity and inclusion . Plans for 2025+ include a new campus with universal design principles (enhancing physical accessibility), expanding scholarships for refugees in cooperation with international bodies, and new research centers focused on social innovation. By building on the solid foundation laid during 2019–2024, Ahlia will continue to be a national and regional leader in reducing inequalities , ensuring that higher education serves as a powerful engine for a more equitable and inclusive society.