Equality, Equity, Inclusion and Diversity

University of Tunis El Manar

Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Policy

Version: 3.0
Owner: Sustainable Impact Office

1. General Equality, Diversity & Anti-Discrimination Policy

The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) is committed to fostering a fair and inclusive environment where all members of its community, students, academic staff, researchers, administrative employees, and visitors, are treated with dignity and respect. Diversity enriches creativity, academic excellence, and innovation. UTM strives to ensure that every individual can learn, work, and thrive free from discrimination, prejudice, or harassment.

UTM’s approach aligns with Law No. 2008-19 of 25 February 2008 governing higher education in Tunisia, as well as international standards on equity and human rights. The university works actively to eliminate all forms of discrimination and promote an environment where opportunity is determined solely by merit, capability, and ambition, not by gender, race, disability, religion, or any other status.

During recruitment, selection panels receive bias-awareness training to ensure that hiring decisions are based on fair assessment. In admissions and scholarships, transparent and equitable criteria are applied, prioritizing academic merit and social equity.

Every member of the university shares the responsibility for upholding these values. Whether by standing against discriminatory behaviour, supporting colleagues from diverse backgrounds, or engaging in equity workshops, all contribute to a culture of openness and respect. Violations of this policy are handled through the university’s disciplinary framework, ensuring accountability and protection for affected individuals.

2. Gender Equality & Women’s Empowerment Policy

UTM recognizes that gender equality is fundamental to academic integrity, social justice, and sustainable progress. This policy ensures that all individuals — regardless of gender identity, enjoy equal access to opportunities, leadership, and resources across the institution.

UTM integrates gender equality into governance, teaching, and research practices:

• Representation and leadership: The university promotes the active participation of women in academic and administrative leadership. Several faculties have achieved gender-balanced governance, while mentorship programs connect young female academics with senior mentors to encourage professional growth.
• Work–life balance and family-friendly policies: Acknowledging that caregiving responsibilities often impact women disproportionately, UTM has adopted progressive maternity and paternity policies under the PAQ GAGE and WE4LEAD projects, in alignment with the 2024 Tunisian Pay Law. These include extended maternity leave, breastfeeding flexibility, and dedicated paternity leave for both biological and adoptive fathers. The policies also promote flexible working hours, telework, and on-campus childcare support.

Please consult our Maternity and Paternity policy here:

https://utm-shine.com/maternity-and-parenting/

• Safety and empowerment: The university enforces a zero-tolerance policy against gender-based violence and harassment. It offers confidential reporting mechanisms, psychological support, and awareness campaigns to protect all community members.

Annual initiatives such as the Women in Academia Forum and International Women’s Day events serve as platforms to highlight women’s achievements, strengthen equality commitments, and advance institutional reform.

Beyond its campuses, UTM collaborates with national ministries, NGOs, and international partners to advance gender equality throughout the Tunisian higher education ecosystem.

UTM’s vision is that gender equity is not only a matter of fairness, it is a strategic pillar of innovation, institutional excellence, and societal resilience.

3. Inclusion & Equity Policy

As a pioneer in accessible education, UTM stands out for its inclusive programs supporting students with disabilities. The university offers two unique degree programs Physiotherapy for the Visually Impaired and Sign Language Studies, enabling learners with disabilities to reach their academic and professional potential without barriers.

UTM adopts a social and inclusive model of disability, emphasizing the removal of structural barriers rather than individual limitations. This approach guides campus design, teaching methods, and digital resources, ensuring accessibility for all. New buildings comply with universal access standards including ramps, tactile signage, and adapted facilities while learning materials integrate assistive technologies.

The annual “University Without Obstacles” Day embodies this vision, gathering students, staff, and partners around inclusion, empathy, and accessibility. Activities such as art exhibitions by differently-abled students, advocacy workshops, and open discussions help dismantle stereotypes and foster a shared understanding of diversity.

UTM also supports students from low-income or first-generation backgrounds through scholarships, academic mentoring, and preparatory programs that promote equitable access to education.

Ultimately, UTM aspires to make inclusion and equity a lived reality  where every member of the community feels valued, empowered, and supported to achieve their goals.

4. Continuous Improvement

The equity and inclusion team, within the Sustainable Impact Office, oversees the implementation and evaluation of this framework. It collects data, monitors progress, and reports annually on gender representation, accessibility measures, and diversity outcomes.

Regular consultation with students, staff, and external stakeholders ensures that this framework remains dynamic and responsive. Through ongoing review, training, and collaboration, UTM transforms its principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion into active drivers of institutional excellence and sustainable impact.