University of El Oued on SDG 5 – Gender Equality

Introduction

Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) – Gender Equality – is centered on achieving gender parity and empowering all women and girls. The University of El Oued is deeply committed to upholding this global objective by actively working to eliminate gender-based disparities and foster equal opportunities across its educational, research, and administrative domains. Through strategic initiatives and targeted support mechanisms, the university has cultivated an inclusive environment where female students, staff, and faculty are equipped with the resources necessary to excel.

Research Contribution to SDG 5

The university’s research output directly contributes to the conceptual advancement of gender equality, specifically focusing on economic empowerment.

Publication: Chikh-Amnache, S., & Mekhzoumi, L. (2024). The influence of socioeconomic factors on female entrepreneurship in Southeast Asian countries. Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies.

This study investigates the socioeconomic conditions that shape female entrepreneurship in Southeast Asian nations, identifying critical barriers and enablers influencing women’s participation in business creation. By rigorously analyzing regional data, the research clarifies how educational attainment, income stability, and robust institutional support mechanisms enhance women’s economic independence. This publication directly supports SDG Target 5.1 by deepening the global understanding of gender disparities in entrepreneurship and providing evidence-based policy recommendations for inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Promoting Women’s Access and Empowerment Schemes

The University of El Oued actively promotes equal access to cultural, leadership, and personal development opportunities for female students, reinforcing their skill development and recognition.

National Recognition in Arts and Leadership: On December 4, 2024, student Aya Sabaa achieved first place nationally in the prestigious University Stage Performance Competition, representing the Directorate of University Services. Competing against finalists from nine universities, including participants with special needs, Ms. Sabaa’s success showcased female creativity and leadership in cultural expression. This achievement underscores the university’s commitment to providing female students with equitable access to national platforms and opportunities for artistic and leadership development.

Holistic Student Development and Recognition: The University Residence Saoudi Bachir organized a formal ceremony honoring female residents who successfully completed the memorization of the Holy Qur’an. The event, which recognized three students with Umrah trips and ten others with valuable prizes, was attended by senior university service directors, faculty members, local officials, and community leaders.

Similarly, the Hadhaa Saleh University Residence honored 34 female students for the same achievement, with fifteen Umrah trips generously donated by benefactors. These initiatives highlight the institution’s dedication to empowering women through spiritual education, mentorship, and community-wide appreciation for female excellence and moral achievement within the student body.

Policy of Non-Discrimination and Equitable Staff Recognition

The university maintains and enforces a strict policy of non-discrimination, ensuring equitable recognition and appreciation for all members of its staff regardless of gender.

Equitable Staff Appreciation: On the occasion of International Workers’ Day (May 1), the University Residence organized an appreciation ceremony honoring both male and female staff members for their dedication and service. This event, attended by the Director of University Services and department heads, demonstrated the university’s commitment to providing equal professional recognition of workers’ contributions regardless of gender, reinforcing an inclusive and equitable workplace culture.

Celebration of Women’s Contributions: On March 6, 2024, the University of El Oued marked International Women’s Day with a celebratory ceremony honoring female faculty members, students, administrators, and staff. Held under the supervision of the University President and the Social Services Committee, the event highlighted women’s increasing and vital roles in academia and administration. This formal recognition reaffirms the university’s dedication to gender equality and to actively empowering women as essential contributors to academic and societal progress.

Conclusion

The University of El Oued demonstrates a comprehensive and multi-faceted commitment to achieving SDG 5, integrating gender equality principles across its core functions. The evidence shows a strategic focus on three key areas: advancing the global discourse through high-level research on economic empowerment; promoting equal opportunity and holistic development for female students through academic, cultural, and spiritual recognition; and enforcing policies of non-discrimination and equitable appreciation within the workplace. The sustained efforts to honor and recognize the contributions of female students and staff, from national competitions to administrative roles, solidify the university’s role as a leading institution in fostering an environment where gender parity is not merely a goal, but a lived reality. Moving forward, the university will continue to monitor the impact of these initiatives and seek new avenues to deepen empowerment and ensure lasting gender equality.