University of Mosul Maternity and Women’s Participation Support Policy

University of Mosul Maternity and Women’s Participation Support Policy

1. Title

University of Mosul Policy on Maternity and Support for Women’s Participation

2. Purpose / Objectives

This policy aims to enable women at the University of Mosul to balance family responsibilities with academic and professional commitments. It seeks to strengthen their active participation in education and employment by providing an inclusive environment that addresses maternity needs while upholding justice and equal opportunities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all women at the University of Mosul, including faculty members, administrative staff, and students, and covers all academic and professional stages related to the university.

4. Principles / Commitments

  • Empowerment and Equality: Ensure women can pursue their academic and professional paths without barriers arising from maternity.

  • Fairness and Flexibility: Provide equitable and adaptable arrangements that consider mothers’ circumstances.

  • Comprehensive Care: Deliver financial, psychological, and social support services to enhance the well-being of mothers.

  • Transparency: Clearly communicate the rights of mothers and the mechanisms for benefiting from this policy.

5. Procedures / Implementation Mechanisms

A. Flexible Working and Study Hours

  • Introduce flexible working arrangements such as part-time options or flexible arrival and departure times.

  • Grant student mothers priority in selecting class schedules that align with family responsibilities.

B. Maternity Leave

  • Provide paid maternity leave in accordance with applicable Iraqi legislation.

  • Offer alternative arrangements for student mothers, such as lecture postponements or make-up examinations during maternity leave.

C. Childcare Services

  • Establish accredited childcare facilities on campus that provide safe and healthy environments.

  • Provide financial support or fee discounts for childcare services, with flexible drop-off and pick-up times.

D. Psychological and Social Support

  • Offer counseling services to help mothers balance academic/professional and family roles.

  • Create community support groups to foster solidarity among student and staff mothers.

E. Spatial Facilities

  • Provide dedicated breastfeeding rooms and rest areas for mothers.

  • Ensure that campus facilities are designed and adapted to meet the needs of pregnant women.

6. Responsibilities

  • University Administration: Ensure the provision of resources and infrastructure.

  • Office of Student Affairs: Support student mothers and facilitate their academic arrangements.

  • Human Resources Department: Implement maternity leave policies and support female staff.

  • Support and Counseling Centers: Deliver psychological and social support services.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Produce annual reports on the number of beneficiaries and the effectiveness of the policy.

  • Assess levels of satisfaction among student and staff mothers regarding the provided services.

  • Measure the policy’s impact on women’s continued participation in academic and professional activities.

8. Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed every two years to ensure compliance with national legislation and international standards, with adjustments made based on mothers’ needs and lived experiences.

9. Link to Global Goals (SDGs)

  • Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being – Provide health and psychological care for mothers.

  • Goal 4: Quality Education – Enable student mothers to continue their education without barriers.

  • Goal 5: Gender Equality – Support women’s participation in academic and professional life.

  • Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Provide a fair and flexible working environment for women.

Approved by: Presidency of the University of Mosul.

Last updated: 24-12-2024.