AUC HOSTS THE FIRST REGIONAL CONFERENCEON SAFE AND INCLUSIVE CAMPUSES IN THE ARAB WORLD
University in Cairo (AUC) recently hosted the first regional conference titled “Safe and Inclusive University Campuses in the Arab Region” aimed at developing actionable strategies and policies, exchanging insights on best practices, and building a sustainable network of institutions committed to campus safety and inclusivity.
The conference was organized in collaboration with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), the Lebanese American University (LAU) and Mansoura University. The two-day event, held at AUC’s New Cairo campus, attracted prominent academic leaders, policymakers, and student leaders to discuss the urgent need for creating safe, inclusive and empowering environments for all university community members.
Among the speakers and participants were leaders from several leading universities in the Arab world, the National Council for Women, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and civil society leaders.
“Our commitment is to ensure that all members of our communities—students, faculty and staff alike—feel safe, valued and supported throughout their academic and professional journeys,” said AUC President Ahmed Dallal in his remarks at the conference’s opening.
“This is essential to enriching the educational experience and upholding our shared values as institutions committed to cultural, social and intellectual diversity, and inclusiveness,” Dallal added.
The conference featured thematic sessions addressing topics such as combating gender-based violence, addressing discrimination, enhancing mental health support, and developing inclusive teaching practices.
Sessions such as “Sustainable Practices in Building Inclusive Communities” and “Policy Frameworks and Implementation Strategies” highlighted innovative approaches for creating actionable policies on the ground.
AUC students actively participated in the discussions, sharing their personal experiences regarding safety and inclusion on campus.
Nele Rabeneck, a sociology and anthropology master’s student at AUC, emphasized the role of community in creating a safe campus, stating: “I do not have to overthink my actions or worry about my safety because I know I am in an environment where others work to keep me safe and respect boundaries.”
Sandra Maurice, a global public health master’s student, remarked: “It’s always important to celebrate individuality and to let people feel at ease and safe in their surroundings.
I feel inclusivity is creating a safe community where everyone is heard, seen and appreciated as the human they are.”
Ashaba Junior, a sustainable development master’s student, shared: “For me, as someone who has been away from his family for quite a long time, I feel that the campus environment has allowed me to thrive.
This stems from having clear and well-implemented policies in place.”
AUC organized this conference in conjunction with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign aimed at addressing violence against women and girls.
The event also coincided with AUC’s observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming the University’s commitment to equality and inclusivity.
