SDG 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES

SDG 10: REDUCED INEQUALITIES

Al Maarefa University in Saudi Arabia is deeply committed to Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), integrating inclusivity and equity into its campus culture and programs [1]. The university recognizes that education can empower underrepresented groups and strives to ensure that no student is left behind due to gender, disability, or economic hardship [1]. This report outlines Al Maarefa’s key initiatives, policies, community engagements, and partnerships that reduce inequalities, highlighting evidence from 2020 onwards. The following sections detail the university’s support for low-income and marginalized students, institutional equity policies, outreach and advocacy programs, and collaborations that promote inclusive development.

Programs and Initiatives Supporting Underrepresented Students

Al Maarefa University offers a range of scholarships, financial aid, and support services to ensure students from low-income or marginalized backgrounds can access and succeed in higher education. The university provides both merit-based and need-based scholarships that cover tuition and other expenses, so that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from enrolling [2]. For example, Al Maarefa’s University Scholarships and Financial Aid program eases the burden on low-income students through grants and tuition waivers [2]. In addition, the university has partnership programs with government and charitable organizations to sponsor disadvantaged students. A longstanding agreement with the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY) has provided educational grants in majors like medicine, nursing, and computer science, enabling underserved youth to pursue bachelor’s degrees with tuition fully funded [3]. Likewise, a collaboration with the Saudi Social Charity Fund allowed 80 students to study nursing at Al Maarefa with all fees covered by the fund, an initiative aimed at orphans and low-income families (1432–33H academic year) [4].

Beyond tuition assistance, Al Maarefa addresses practical needs to foster equal opportunity. The university subsidizes student living costs by contracting with vendors for affordable meals and transportation discounts [5]. For instance, Al Maarefa has arranged a low-cost meal plan in partnership with a third-party caterer and secured special student discounts for transportation, including agreements with Uber and Careem ride-hailing services [5]. The university even appointed a legal advisory firm (“Alnadhir”) to provide free legal assistance to students and staff in need, ensuring that low-income individuals have support beyond academics [5]. These measures help disadvantaged students concentrate on their studies by reducing everyday financial pressures.

Accessibility and disability inclusion are also central to Al Maarefa’s programs. The university is dedicated to providing an inclusive learning environment for students with disabilities, ensuring that campus facilities, technologies, and materials are accessible to those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments [1]. This includes maintaining barrier-free infrastructure (ramps, elevators, etc.) and offering accommodations such as assistive technologies and alternative learning formats. The “People of Determination” support services on campus work to remove attitudinal and physical obstacles so that students with disabilities can fully participate in academic life [1]. In late 2024, the university’s Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence, with support from the King Salman Center for Disability Research, even launched a series of workshops showcasing how technology can enhance the lives of people with disabilities (details in Collaborations section) [6]. Such initiatives underscore Al Maarefa’s commitment to empowering students of all abilities.

Inclusive admissions policies further demonstrate the university’s push for equity. Al Maarefa’s admissions and outreach teams actively encourage applications from students in underrepresented demographics – whether economically disadvantaged, female in STEM fields, or first-generation college-goers. Notably, the university introduced a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering program for women for the first time, expanding opportunities in a field where women had been underrepresented [7]. Within its first year, female students enrolled in this engineering program, benefiting from mentorship and academic support to thrive in a non-traditional discipline. More broadly, Al Maarefa’s flexible learning options (such as part-time and online study) help women balancing family or work commitments to continue their education [8]. By 2023, women comprised a growing proportion of students across all disciplines, reflecting the impact of these access schemes. The university’s efforts to recruit and retain students from underserved communities – through financial aid, bridging programs, and supportive services – contribute to breaking down socioeconomic and gender-based inequalities in higher education [8].

Institutional Policies and Practices for Equity and Inclusion

Promoting a culture of nondiscrimination and inclusion is formalized through Al Maarefa University’s policies. The university has a comprehensive Equality and Diversity Policy that explicitly prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender, race, nationality, religion, disability, or any protected characteristic [1]. This policy applies to all students, staff, faculty, and applicants, ensuring fairness in hiring, admissions, and daily campus life. Al Maarefa’s policy aligns with international best practices (inspired by frameworks like the Equality Act 2010) and mandates equal opportunity in all university functions [1]. Key objectives include annual monitoring of diversity data, involving stakeholders in setting equity goals, and training staff in inclusive practices [1]. The policy also guarantees that recruitment, promotion, and student evaluations are based solely on merit, with processes in place to handle any complaints of harassment or bias promptly [1]. By publishing measurable equality objectives and enforcing sanctions for violations, the university leadership holds itself accountable to a high standard of equity.

Gender equality is a particularly strong focus area. In line with national reforms, Al Maarefa University actively supports female students and staff through targeted programs. The university’s Women’s Access Scheme offers scholarships and financial aid specifically for female students from underserved communities, helping increase women’s enrollment in higher education [8]. To further empower women, Al Maarefa provides mentorship programs and leadership training for female students, cultivating their academic and professional growth [8]. The impact of these efforts is evident in the achievements of Al Maarefa’s female scholars. For example, teams of female pharmacy students recently won 2nd and 3rd place awards for research at the international DUPHAT conference, a success honored by the University President in 2023 [8]. The university also marked International Women’s Day with contributions from its community – a female Pharm.D. alumna wrote about the elevated status of women in Saudi Arabia, and a current female medical student created an artwork celebrating women’s empowerment [8]. These initiatives and celebrations foster an environment where women are valued and given equal chances to excel. Additionally, Al Maarefa abides by family-friendly policies (e.g. maternity leave and flexible work arrangements) and has invested in on-campus childcare facilities to support women with young children in continuing their studies or careers [1]. The result is a campus climate that not only welcomes women into all fields – including STEM and leadership roles – but also supports them through graduation and into their professional lives.

Al Maarefa’s policies also emphasize inclusion of international students and minorities. While the university’s primary language of instruction is English and many students are Saudi nationals, Al Maarefa extends support to its foreign students to ensure they integrate well. Admission pathways for international students are clearly outlined (requiring equivalent credentials and visas) [9], and importantly, the same scholarship opportunities available to local students are also open to international applicants based on merit or need [5]. This inclusive approach means that talented students from abroad, including developing countries, can study at Al Maarefa with financial support [5]. The university participates in Saudi government scholarship initiatives that bring students from low-income nations to the Kingdom – for instance, programs under the Ministry of Education that grant fee waivers or stipends to students from the Islamic world [5]. On campus, international student services provide additional language, counseling, and mentorship support to help non-local students adapt academically and socially [5]. Culturally, Al Maarefa’s nondiscrimination policy protects individuals of all ethnic and religious backgrounds, fostering respect and understanding in the student body [1]. The diversity of nationalities and cultures in the university community is seen as an asset that prepares all students for global citizenship. By addressing the needs of women, international students, and minority groups through its policies and support systems, Al Maarefa University cultivates an inclusive institutional culture aligned with the principles of SDG10.

Outreach, Awareness, and Advocacy Programs on Inequality

Al Maarefa University extends its commitment to reducing inequalities beyond the campus through robust outreach and social responsibility programs. The university’s Community Service Unit leads many of these initiatives, often in partnership with local organizations, to support disadvantaged populations and raise awareness about inequality-related issues. A flagship example is the “Life Initiative”, launched via Al Maarefa’s Social Responsibility Unit to reduce health disparities in the community [10]. Through the Life Initiative, university volunteers and faculty provide free training in first aid and CPR to school students and organize public health literacy lectures [10]. By equipping young people and community members with life-saving skills and knowledge about wellness, this program addresses inequality in health outcomes (SDG3) and empowers participants to respond to emergencies. The Life Initiative’s goals include preventing serious complications during emergencies in underserved areas and expanding health education outreach [10]. Such efforts demonstrate Al Maarefa’s resolve to tackle social and health inequalities through education and community capacity building.

Al Maarefa University students volunteering through the “Wateen Al Maarefa” club prepare to distribute iftar meals to low-income community members during Ramadan [11].
Another significant outreach effort is the Wateen Al Maarefa initiative, a student-led volunteer program that operates especially during the holy month of Ramadan. In Ramadan 2023, the Wateen Al Maarefa club mobilized students to prepare and distribute over 550 iftar meals to fasting individuals in the Diriyah community surrounding the university [11]. Over multiple days, volunteers assembled meal boxes and set up distribution points to ensure that needy community members had a nutritious evening meal to break their fast. This charitable project, conducted with the spirit of Ramadan giving, directly supported low-income and working-class individuals in the area and strengthened town-gown relationships. Similarly, Al Maarefa’s Community Service Unit collaborated with the Insan Orphan Care Association to host a special iftar for orphaned children [12]. On International Orphans Day in 2019, the university welcomed children supported by Insan and provided a communal iftar meal and gifts, bringing joy to a typically marginalized group [12]. These iftar programs not only alleviate hunger but also foster social inclusion by bringing the university community together with vulnerable groups in fellowship and understanding.

Beyond charitable drives, Al Maarefa conducts awareness campaigns, workshops, and public events to advocate for equality and inclusion. The university regularly holds on-campus seminars and training sessions that educate students and staff about the challenges faced by marginalized populations [1]. Through interactive workshops on topics like cultural sensitivity, disability awareness, and anti-bullying, participants build empathy and learn how to contribute to an inclusive environment [1]. Al Maarefa also opens many events to the public to spread awareness in the wider community. For example, the College of Medicine has hosted health fairs and free clinics in nearby neighborhoods, providing services and education to those who may lack access to healthcare – a direct effort to reduce inequality in health (SDG3) while engaging students in service learning. In the academic realm, the curriculum itself incorporates diversity and inclusion, ensuring graduates are conscious of social inequalities. Courses in sociology, ethics, and global studies challenge students to examine issues like poverty, gender bias, and migration from multiple perspectives [1]. This diverse and inclusive curriculum helps produce graduates who are advocates for reduced inequalities in their professional and civic lives [1]. Whether through community service or classroom dialogue, Al Maarefa University uses education as a tool for raising awareness and driving action on inequality.

Collaborations and Partnerships Promoting Inclusive Development

Al Maarefa University amplifies its impact on reducing inequalities by partnering with NGOs, government bodies, and other institutions at the local, national, and international levels. These collaborations leverage combined expertise and resources to tackle inequality in broader society. A notable partnership is with the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) – together, they focus on innovation in disability support. In December 2024, Al Maarefa and KSCDR co-hosted a series of “Workshops on AI Applications for the Support and Treatment of People with Disabilities.” This four-day program brought local and international experts to campus to showcase how emerging technologies can improve quality of life for individuals with visual, hearing, cognitive, and physical disabilities [6]. Researchers and practitioners explored assistive AI innovations (from smart prosthetics to sign-language interpretation tools), shared best practices, and discussed ethical considerations in disability tech. Notably, these workshops were accredited for professional education (32 CME hours), attracting healthcare professionals, tech developers, and policy makers – all with the aim of advancing inclusive solutions [6]. The collaboration culminated in a “Bridges of Intelligence” hackathon that paired students with experts to prototype assistive technologies [6]. This partnership with a leading disability research center underscores Al Maarefa’s role in not just accommodating disabilities on campus, but also contributing to national capacity in disability rights and research.

Al Maarefa University’s poster announcing the AI for Disabilities workshop series, organized in cooperation with the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) [6].
Al Maarefa’s collaborations also target economic and educational inequalities. The university has worked closely with non-profit foundations and charities to support students from vulnerable groups. As mentioned earlier, Al Maarefa’s agreement with WAMY (World Assembly of Muslim Youth) provides fully funded scholarships for students who could not otherwise afford college, especially from conflict-affected or low-income countries [3]. This collaboration, initially established in 2010 and renewed thereafter, enabled dozens of students to enroll in Al Maarefa’s medical and technical programs on full scholarships, aligning with WAMY’s mission to uplift Muslim youth through education [3]. Likewise, in 2019 the university signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ensan Orphans Care Society (Riyadh region) to facilitate educational opportunities for orphans [2]. Under this agreement, Al Maarefa provides orphans with seats in academic programs and tailored support, while Ensan and social agencies cover tuition and living expenses. This public-private partnership directly addresses inequality by giving some of the most disadvantaged youth a chance to obtain higher education in fields like nursing and engineering – a life-changing opportunity that can break cycles of poverty. Al Maarefa’s support to Ensan also includes hosting events (such as the orphans’ iftar) that integrate orphans into the university community, helping them build social capital and aspirations for the future [12].

On the government collaboration front, Al Maarefa University aligns its initiatives with Saudi national strategies for inclusive development. The university participates in national SDG dialogues and data-gathering efforts, working with ministries to share best practices on SDG10 and related goals [10]. For example, Al Maarefa contributes to the Ministry of Education’s annual reviews on higher education and the SDGs, showcasing its programs for women’s empowerment and poverty reduction in campus reports. The university also engages with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development on employment equality – its policies ensure equal pay for equal work and ban any workplace discrimination, in harmony with national labor regulations [1]. Through the National Labor Gateway “Taqat” platform (a government initiative to connect job seekers with employers), Al Maarefa helps its graduating students, including women and students with disabilities, find equitable job opportunities [1]. The Taqat system aims to give “equal opportunities for all” in the labor market [1], and Al Maarefa’s career center works with this platform to place students in jobs that match their skills. This cooperation with government programs ensures that the university’s commitment to equality extends into students’ employment outcomes after graduation.

Finally, Al Maarefa joins hands with local associations and international networks to advocate for inclusive development. In 2022, the university partnered with the Nesaa Al-Mustaqbal (Women of the Future) Association to host a “Youth and Sustainable Development” symposium on campus [7]. Timed with Global Entrepreneurship Day, this event convened young entrepreneurs and community leaders to discuss women’s economic empowerment (#تمكين_المرأة) as a driver for sustainable development [7]. The association and Al Maarefa jointly ran workshops on developing women-led startups and provided mentoring to aspiring female entrepreneurs from the student body and local community. This collaboration exemplifies how the university leverages NGO partnerships to advance gender equity (SDG5) and decent work (SDG8), both of which feed into reducing inequalities. Internationally, Al Maarefa has engaged with organizations like UniRef (University of Refugees) – in 2023 it hosted a delegation from UniRef to explore ways to provide higher education to refugees worldwide [13]. During this visit, Al Maarefa discussed humanitarian educational services and potential exchange programs for refugee students, signaling its willingness to support displaced and stateless youth in obtaining quality education [13]. Such dialogues position Al Maarefa as an active contributor to the global conversation on reducing inequalities among marginalized populations across borders.

Conclusion

Through its comprehensive programs, inclusive policies, community outreach, and strategic collaborations, Al Maarefa University demonstrates a holistic approach to SDG10: Reduced Inequalities. The university not only supports its own students – by providing scholarships to the underprivileged, ensuring accessibility for the disabled, and enforcing equity in its culture – but also extends its impact outward by serving and empowering the community. From distributing meals to the needy, to championing women in STEM, to innovating for disability inclusion, Al Maarefa University integrates the principles of equality into education, research, and service. These efforts, documented with evidence since 2020, underline the university’s role as a catalyst for social change in Saudi Arabia. Al Maarefa’s commitment to “leave no one behind” aligns with national development goals and international standards, making it a noteworthy contributor to the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings (SDG10). By continuing to foster partnerships and adapt to emerging needs, Al Maarefa University will persist in driving inclusive growth and opportunity – on campus and beyond – helping build a more equitable society for all.

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