Decent Work and Economic Growth

8.2.3 Employment policy on discrimination

2023-2024

AASTMT’s Commitment to Non-Discrimination and SDG 8

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) stands firmly committed to the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8): Decent Work and Economic Growth, particularly its emphasis on fairness, equality, and inclusivity in the workplace and learning environment. The institution’s anti-discrimination policy is grounded in the belief that sustainable economic growth and decent work can only be achieved in an environment free from bias, inequality, and prejudice.

AASTMT strictly prohibits all forms of discrimination based on race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or any other personal characteristic, ensuring that every member of its community is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. The Academy actively fosters a culture that celebrates diversity and equal opportunity, reflecting its mission to provide an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive academically and professionally.

By embedding these values into its institutional policies, governance, and daily operations, AASTMT not only complies with international labor and human rights standards but also contributes directly to the realization of SDG 8. Through this commitment, the Academy promotes fair wages, non-discriminatory employment practices, and equitable access to professional development opportunities, ensuring that diversity and equality remain integral to its pursuit of sustainable growth and decent work for all.

Please read our Non-discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy at the following link:

https://aast.edu/en/sdg/goals.php?unit_item=1208&page_id=120800016


The AASTMT is also making efforts to collaborate with relevant associations to fight discrimination in many work sectors.

AASTMT “Sustainable Shipping Forum” at COP28 Champions Inclusive and Equitable Transformation in the Maritime Industry

Dubai, UAE – December 7, 2023 — The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) reaffirmed its strong commitment to the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8): Decent Work and Economic Growth during its participation in the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) held in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023.

As part of this participation, AASTMT organized the “Sustainable Shipping Forum: Navigating Strategic Transformation in the Maritime Industry”, hosted on December 6, 2023 at the Arab League Pavilion in the Blue Zone. The forum addressed how strategic transformations in the global maritime sector can drive not only environmental and economic sustainability, but also social inclusion, fair employment, and equal opportunity.

The discussions highlighted that the transition toward a sustainable maritime industry must integrate non-discriminatory labor practices, ensure equal access to training and career advancement for men and women alike, and create safe and equitable workplaces for all — including international and marginalized workers. These principles directly support SDG 8’s vision of promoting decent work, fair wages, and inclusive economic growth.

AASTMT’s leadership emphasized that sustainability and equality are inseparable pillars of progress. The forum called for the development of transformative strategies and human-centered maritime policies that empower workers, uphold gender equality, and protect against discrimination in employment and career progression.

By combining green transformation with social justice and fairness, AASTMT continues to position itself as a regional leader in advancing a sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready maritime industry.

The event’s link on AASTMT news:

https://aast.edu/en/news/news-details.php?language=1&view=1&unit_id=1&news_id=486101611&event_type_id=1


AASTMT Council of International Transport and Logistics Champions Decent Work, Equal Pay, and Anti-Discrimination in Line with SDG 8

Alexandria, Egypt – December 2023 — The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) reaffirmed its dedication to promoting decent work, equal employment opportunities, and anti-discrimination policies during the 6th Session of the Council of the College of International Transport and Logistics (CITL), held at AASTMT’s Abu Kir Campus under the theme “Humanitarian Logistics Facing Global Crises Challenges.”

The meeting gathered leading national and international figures including the Commander of the Egyptian Naval Forces, the Head of the Maritime Transport Sector, the Chairman of the Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety, the Ambassador of Mauritania, and the President of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce — all united under AASTMT’s vision to advance sustainable and equitable growth within the logistics and maritime sectors.

This initiative directly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), which calls for productive employment, equal opportunity, and fair compensation for all workers. By focusing on developing human capital, AASTMT ensures that progress in maritime and logistics infrastructure goes hand-in-hand with the empowerment and protection of people working in these industries.

AASTMT upholds a comprehensive Pay Scale Equity Employment Policy, grounded in Article 35 of the Egyptian Labor Law, ensuring equal pay for equal work and the elimination of wage discrimination based on gender, age, religion, or social background. The Academy continuously reviews its compensation structure to guarantee that all faculty, staff, and workers receive fair and competitive wages that exceed the national minimum standard, supporting a decent standard of living.

The CITL Council emphasized that diversity, fairness, and inclusion are essential for innovation and resilience within the logistics sector. Through targeted training programs, academic excellence, and collaboration with industry leaders, AASTMT is fostering a new generation of professionals equipped with the skills and ethical awareness required to sustain equitable growth and social justice.

H.E. Prof. Dr. Ismail Abdel Ghafar Ismail Farag, President of AASTMT, stated:

“True sustainability is achieved when our commitment to excellence extends beyond innovation to fairness — ensuring every individual, regardless of background or gender, enjoys decent work, fair pay, and equal opportunity.”

Through this event and ongoing initiatives, AASTMT continues to integrate the principles of SDG 8 into its policies and operations, reinforcing its leadership in advancing decent work, anti-discrimination, and equitable development across the Arab region.

For more information:
https://aast.edu/en/news/news-details.php?language=1&view=1&unit_id=1&news_id=486101760&event_type_id=1


AASTMT Celebrates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Promoting Equality and Decent Work Opportunities

Abu Kir Campus, February 8, 2024 — The Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT), in cooperation with the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science in the Arab States, organized a special celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS), held on 10–11 February 2024 at the AASTMT Abu Kir Campus. The annual event brought together more than 150 high-level participants from diverse generations and scientific disciplines.

The celebration reaffirmed AASTMT’s commitment to advancing the goals of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8): Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 5: Gender Equality, by emphasizing that equal participation of women in science and technology is essential for inclusive and sustainable economic progress.

The event’s activities focused on empowering women and girls to pursue education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and innovation (STEM)—fields that are key to building future-ready economies. By providing platforms that promote visibility, mentorship, and equal opportunity, AASTMT continues to combat discrimination and gender bias while ensuring that women have fair access to professional growth, leadership roles, and decent work conditions in the scientific and academic community.

Through this initiative, AASTMT once again demonstrated its unwavering dedication to creating an inclusive, equitable, and innovation-driven environment where women and men alike can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth.

The event’s link on AASTMT news 

https://aast.edu/en/news/news-details.php?language=1&view=1&unit_id=1&news_id=486101899&event_type_id=1


AASTMT Heliopolis Campus Celebrates Arab Cultural Heritage Day, Promoting Inclusivity and Decent Work through Cultural Diversity

Cairo, Egypt – February 29, 2024 — The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) celebrated Arab Cultural Heritage Day at its Heliopolis Campus, reaffirming the institution’s dedication to cultural diversity, social inclusion, and respect for shared Arab identity. The celebration highlighted the vital role of heritage and cultural understanding in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8): Decent Work and Economic Growth, by strengthening social cohesion, inclusivity, and equitable participation in education and employment.

The event featured a variety of cultural presentations, artistic performances, and exhibitions that showcased the richness of Arab traditions and their contribution to creativity, innovation, and community development. Faculty members, students, and staff from diverse nationalities participated, reflecting AASTMT’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity across all its campuses.

By embracing cultural heritage as a source of unity and empowerment, AASTMT emphasized that sustainable economic growth is inseparable from human dignity, cultural expression, and inclusive participation. The Academy continues to promote a learning and working environment where diversity is celebrated, and where all individuals—regardless of gender, nationality, or background—are valued and supported in line with SDG 8’s principles of decent work, fairness, and equality.

2022-2023

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) is resolutely aligned with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) and is unwavering in its dedication to eradicating discrimination in all its forms. AASTMT's discrimination policy is firmly rooted in the framework of SDG 8, which emphasizes fair and inclusive economic growth, decent work, and the promotion of equal opportunities for all. Discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or any other characteristic is expressly prohibited within the institution. AASTMT is committed to providing an equitable and inclusive environment that not only adheres to the principles of SDG 8 but actively contributes to its realization. By fostering a campus culture that values diversity and ensures that every member of the AASTMT community is treated with respect and dignity, the institution actively supports SDG 8's vision of promoting fair wages, equal opportunities, and non-discriminatory practices in the workplace and educational settings.

Anti-Harassment Policy

Description
The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) is committed to creating a workplace that promotes mutual respect and dignity for all its employees. Every individual is entitled to work in an environment that ensures equal employment opportunities and prohibits harassment. Consequently, AASTMT expects that all interactions among students, staff, faculty, and employees will be conducted professionally and devoid of any explicit bias, prejudice, or harassment.


Scope
•This policy applies to all staff, students, employees, and applicants who work or study at the Academy, regardless of whether the act was committed by coworkers or by someone not directly affiliated with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (e.g., an outside vendor, consultant, or customer).

•The behavior forbidden by these principles is inappropriate inside or outside the AASTMTs campuses (classes, labs, dorms, offices or any education/work-related environment inside the AASTMT) or outside the campuses, such as during students/business trips, meetings, and students/ business-related social events.

This policy is non-contractual and may be updated at any time.

Aims of the Policy

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport has implemented this policy to guarantee that all students and employees experience an environment free from unlawful harassment and retaliation. The Academy will make every reasonable effort to ensure that all individuals are informed of these policies and understand that any complaints regarding violations will be thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.


Definitions

Harassment: This refers to behaviors that are unsolicited, unwanted, and inappropriate, causing distress to those affected. Harassing behavior may be physical, verbal, or suggestive and can occur in person or through electronic means. It encompasses various actions, including but not limited to the misuse of power intended to harm others (bullying), intimidation (whether actual or attempted), unsolicited advances, direct insults, and malicious gossip. For behavior to be classified as harassment, it must either occur repeatedly or constitute a single serious incident. Harassment does not include legitimate decisions, requests, work assignments, and performance evaluations made by supervisors; disciplinary actions based on university-approved regulations; reasonable expressions of opinion and criticism; or interpersonal conflicts that remain within the bounds of what an individual can reasonably be expected to tolerate in high-pressure situations.


Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is strictly prohibited under Egyptian law. For the purposes of this policy, "sexual harassment" is defined as unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and any other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Policy Statement

This policy should not be used to exclude or isolate any individuals based on their gender identity or any other protected characteristic from educational or work-related activities or discussions at the Academy. In other words, no one should mistakenly use exclusion to evade harassment allegations. The statutes and regulations of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport prohibit discrimination based on sex or any other protected characteristic concerning educational or employment terms, conditions, privileges, and benefits. The prohibitions against harassment and retaliation are intended to complement and strengthen these regulations, rather than serve as a justification for exclusion.


Procedures

Reporting an Incident of Harassment

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport strongly encourages the reporting of any perceived instances of harassment regardless of the offender’s name or position. Individuals who believe they have been the victim of such behavior should:

In case of students: speak with the student affairs department representative or the college vice dean for students’ affairs.


In case of staff member/employee: speak with their immediate supervisor, a member of the personnel practices committee, human resources, or an ombudsman.

Please refer to the complaint method outlined below.


Additionally, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport advises individuals who suspect they are being subjected to such conduct to notify the perpetrator immediately and request that the behavior cease. Often, this action is sufficient to resolve the issue. However, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport understands that an individual may wish to pursue the problem through formal complaint procedures.


Complaint Procedures

Individuals who believe they have been victims of or have witnessed activities prohibited by this policy should express their concerns to their immediate representative in the student affairs department, the college vice dean for student affairs, their supervisor, human resources, any member of the personnel practices committee, or an ombudsman.


The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport encourages early reporting of complaints or concerns to facilitate swift and constructive action before relationships become irreparably strained. Therefore, while there is no specific reporting timeframe, early notification and intervention are the most effective ways to resolve actual or perceived instances of harassment.


Allegations of harassment will be investigated promptly. The investigation may involve individual interviews with those directly involved and, when appropriate, with individuals who may have witnessed the alleged behavior or possess relevant information.


The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport will uphold confidentiality throughout the investigation, to the extent necessary for a thorough inquiry and appropriate corrective measures.


Retaliation against anyone for reporting harassment or for cooperating with an investigation into a harassment allegation is a serious violation of this policy and, like harassment, will lead to disciplinary action. Any retaliatory actions should be reported immediately and will be addressed promptly. Both harassment and retaliation will be handled accordingly

Responsive action may include but is not limited to:

  • For students: Consequences may include training and counseling, verbal or written warnings, temporary suspension from the college, or expulsion.
  • For staff members or employees: Actions may involve training, referral to counseling, or disciplinary measures such as warnings, reprimands, withholding promotions or pay raises, reassignment, temporary suspension without pay, or termination, as deemed appropriate by the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport

Review program

Policy title

Anti-Harassment Policy

Date created

November 2024

Dates reviewed

November 2024

Approving body

Human Resources Affairs Department

Version

2

Next review date

November 2025

Policy owner

AASTMT Vice President for Education and Students Affairs

Human Resources Affairs Department

Lead contact

AASTMT Vice President for Education and Students Affairs

Human Resources Affairs Department

Approval Signature


Dr. Yasser Gaber

Dean of Scientific Research and Innovation


Non-discrimination Policy

Description
The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) is committed to creating an environment of mutual respect and dignity for all its members. Everyone has the right to work in an atmosphere that promotes equal opportunities and prohibits unlawful discrimination. AASTMT firmly asserts its dedication to ensuring that no student, staff member, or visitor experiences discrimination based on age, disability, gender, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, socio-economic background, or trade union membership. Additionally, the Academy actively opposes any assumptions or expectations about students or staff based on stereotypes, ensuring that diverse cultural, religious, and academic perspectives are adequately represented in the AASTMT learning and working environment.

Consequently, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport expects that all interactions among its members and stakeholders will be formal, professional, and free from explicit bias, prejudice, and discrimination.


Scope
This policy applies to all staff, students, employees, and applicants associated with the Academy, regardless of whether the misconduct was perpetrated by coworkers or by individuals not directly affiliated with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (e.g., outside vendors, consultants, or customers).


  • The behaviors prohibited by this policy are deemed inappropriate both on and off AASTMT campuses, including classrooms, laboratories, dormitories, offices, or any educational or work-related environments. This also extends to activities outside the campuses, such as during student or business trips, meetings, and social events related to students or business.
  • This policy is non-contractual and may be revised at any time.


Aims of the Policy

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport has implemented this policy to guarantee that all staff, students, employees, and applicants operate in an environment free from unlawful discrimination. The Academy makes every reasonable effort to ensure that all individuals are informed about these policies and understand that any complaint alleging a violation will be investigated and addressed appropriately.


Definitions


Discrimination
The principle of non-discrimination assumes an environment where everyone can fully participate and realize their potential. This also necessitates that individuals are free to express their opinions without undue limitations.


Discrimination based on any other protected characteristic is equally unlawful. In this policy, discrimination is defined as verbal, written, or physical behavior that disparages or shows hostility or aversion toward any individual based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic, as well as that of their relatives, friends, or associates. Such conduct may: a) have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile learning or work environment.


This conduct includes epithets, slurs, negative stereotyping, threatening, intimidating, or hostile actions, and written or graphic materials that disparage or demonstrate hostility or aversion toward an individual or group. This includes content posted on walls, distributed on AASTMT’s various social media channels, or sent via email, phone (including voice messages), text messages, or other means.


In this regard, all individuals must be treated equally, and all forms of:

  •        admission, assessment, degree progress, and awarding of degrees (students)
  •  recruitment, evaluation, promotion, and rewarding (employees)
  •  invitation, collaboration, and participation (partners and guests)

Equal opportunity

The policy of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport is to guarantee equal educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristic. Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport.


Retaliation
The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport encourages the reporting of all perceived incidents of discrimination. It is the Academy's policy to investigate these reports promptly and thoroughly. Additionally, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports discrimination or participates in an investigation related to such reports.


Policy Statement

Our policies must not be used to exclude or separate individuals based on their gender identity or any other protected characteristic from learning, training, business, or social activities involving students or staff, as well as discussions. In other words, no one should mistakenly use discrimination or exclusion as a means to avoid accountability. The statutes and regulations of the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport prohibit discrimination based on sex or any other protected characteristic in terms, conditions, privileges, and benefits of education and employment. The prohibitions against discrimination and retaliation are intended to complement and reinforce these regulations, not to provide a basis for exemption.


Procedures
Reporting an Incident of Discrimination or Retaliation

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport strongly encourages reporting any perceived instances of discrimination or retaliation, regardless of the offender's name or position:


For students:

  • Speak with a representative from the student affairs department or the college vice dean for student affairs.
  • For staff members/employees: Consult with their immediate supervisor, a member of the personnel practices committee, human resources, or an ombudsman.

Please refer to the complaint procedures outlined below.

Additionally, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport advises individuals who believe they are experiencing such conduct to notify the perpetrator immediately and request that the behavior stop. Often, this action is sufficient to resolve the issue. However, the Academy understands that an individual may prefer to address the matter through formal complaint procedures.

Please refer to the complaint methods outlined below.

Complaint Procedures

Individuals who believe they have been victims of, or have witnessed, activities prohibited by this policy should express their concerns to their immediate student affairs department representative, the college vice dean for student affairs, their supervisor, human resources, any member of the personnel practices committee, or an ombudsman.


The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport encourages early reporting of complaints or concerns to facilitate swift and constructive action before relationships become irreparably strained. Consequently, while there is no specific reporting timeframe, early reporting and intervention are the most effective means of resolving actual or perceived instances of discrimination.


Allegations of discrimination or retaliation will be investigated promptly. The investigation may include individual interviews with the involved parties and, as appropriate, with individuals who may have witnessed the alleged conduct or have relevant information.


The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport will maintain confidentiality throughout the investigation, to the extent necessary for a thorough inquiry and appropriate corrective action.


Retaliation against any individual for reporting discrimination or for cooperating with an inquiry into allegations of harassment or discrimination is a serious violation of this policy. Like discrimination, it will lead to disciplinary action. Retaliatory actions should be reported immediately and will be addressed promptly. All instances of discrimination and retaliation will be handled accordingly.


Responsive action may include but is not limited to:

For students: Possible actions include training and counseling, verbal or written warnings, temporary college suspension, or expulsion.

For staff members or employees: Potential measures include training, referral to counseling, or disciplinary actions such as warnings, reprimands, withholding promotions or pay raises, reassignment, temporary suspension without pay, or termination, as deemed appropriate by the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport.


Review program

Policy title

Non-discrimination Policy

Date created

November 2024

Dates reviewed

November 2024

Approving body

AASTMT Vice President for Education and Students Affairs Human Resources Affairs Department

Version

2

Next review date

November 2025

Policy owner

AASTMT Vice President for Education and Students Affairs Human Resources Affairs Department

Lead contact

AASTMT Vice President for Education and Students Affairs Human Resources Affairs Department

Approval Signature


Dr. Yasser Gaber

Dean of Scientific Research and Innovation

AASTMT Harassment Policy and Anti-discrimination Policy


The AASTMT is also making efforts to collaborate with relevant associations to fight discrimination in many work sectors.

AASTMT celebrates the International Day for Women and Girls in Science


On February 11, 2023, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) celebrated the International Day of Girls and Women in Science, reaffirming its commitment to fostering gender equality and supporting women’s participation in STEM fields. This event aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, particularly in its aim to fight discrimination and promote inclusive employment practices. By highlighting the achievements of female scientists and offering mentorship opportunities, AASTMT provided a platform to inspire young women to pursue careers in science and technology, fields where women remain underrepresented. The celebration addressed barriers women face in STEM and encouraged both the academic and business communities to create equitable pathways for women to thrive professionally.


Central to the event was the promotion of fair employment practices and the elimination of discrimination based on gender, essential elements of SDG 8. AASTMT encouraged companies and organizations to adopt inclusive hiring practices, pay equity, and supportive work environments, ensuring that women in STEM receive equal opportunities and compensation. The celebration served not only as an inspiring event but also as a call to action for institutions to commit to workplace equity and inclusivity, helping to reduce gender-based disparities in high-growth fields. Through such initiatives, AASTMT actively contributes to building a more equitable and diverse workforce, paving the way for sustainable economic growth that includes everyone.

Celebrating Diversity:  AASTMT workshop with the university of Stockholm

On February 12, 2023, the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) celebrated the International Day of Girls and Women in Science, reaffirming its commitment to fostering gender equality and supporting women’s participation in STEM fields. This event aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, particularly in its aim to fight discrimination and promote inclusive employment practices. By highlighting the achievements of female scientists and offering mentorship opportunities, AASTMT provided a platform to inspire young women to pursue careers in science and technology, fields where women remain underrepresented. The celebration addressed barriers women face in STEM and encouraged both the academic and business communities to create equitable pathways for women to thrive professionally.

Central to the event was the promotion of fair employment practices and the elimination of discrimination based on gender, essential elements of SDG 8. AASTMT encouraged companies and organizations to adopt inclusive hiring practices, pay equity, and supportive work environments, ensuring that women in STEM receive equal opportunities and compensation. The celebration served not only as an inspiring event but also as a call to action for institutions to commit to workplace equity and inclusivity, helping to reduce gender-based disparities in high-growth fields. Through such initiatives, AASTMT actively contributes to building a more equitable and diverse workforce, paving the way for sustainable economic growth that includes everyone.

AASTMT students participate in TV programs awards with the theme of ending discrimination

On December 19, 2022, students from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) took part in a prestigious TV program competition focused on the theme of ending discrimination. This contest offered a platform for young voices to showcase creative media productions that tackled issues of prejudice and inequality. By producing TV content aimed at dismantling stereotypes and promoting social unity, these students played a crucial role in advancing public understanding and awareness of discrimination's harmful impacts. The event underscored the power of media as a tool for social change, with student participants passionately advocating for inclusivity through storytelling, interviews, and real-life examples of overcoming bias.

The theme of the contest aligns closely with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which promotes inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment, and decent work for all. One of the key principles of SDG 8 is to reduce inequality and create fair work environments free from discrimination, aligning with the students’ efforts to address social barriers. By highlighting discriminatory practices in workplaces and broader society, the AASTMT students’ TV programs sought to advocate for equitable opportunities for all individuals, regardless of background. This alignment with SDG 8 reinforces the importance of anti-discrimination efforts as a foundational step toward a more inclusive and prosperous global economy, one that thrives on diversity and equal rights.

Read more about this event on AASTMT news page:



2021 - 2022

The Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) is resolutely aligned with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8) and is unwavering in its dedication to eradicating discrimination in all its forms. AASTMT's discrimination policy is firmly rooted in the framework of SDG 8, which emphasizes fair and inclusive economic growth, decent work, and the promotion of equal opportunities for all. Discrimination based on factors such as race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or any other characteristic is expressly prohibited within the institution. AASTMT is committed to providing an equitable and inclusive environment that not only adheres to the principles of SDG 8 but actively contributes to its realization. By fostering a campus culture that values diversity and ensures that every member of the AASTMT community is treated with respect and dignity, the institution actively supports SDG 8's vision of promoting fair wages, equal opportunities, and non-discriminatory practices in the workplace and educational settings.

Please read our Non-discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy

The AASTMT is also making efforts to collaborate with relevant associations to fight discrimination in many work sectors.

AASTMT collaborates with Arab Women in Maritime Association to fight discrimination in the Maritime Sector

The signing of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) and the Arab Women in Maritime Association (AWIMA) on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, represents a significant stride towards promoting anti-discrimination and advancing Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8). By fostering opportunities for women's participation in the academic sector and supporting the regional maritime industry, this collaboration actively combats gender discrimination. It aligns with SDG 8's aims of achieving fair employment and economic growth while emphasizing gender equality as a crucial aspect of inclusive development. Moreover, this partnership demonstrates AASTMT's commitment to eradicating gender-based discrimination and recognizing women as vital contributors to the maritime sector, helping to break down barriers and create a more equitable and diverse workforce.

Furthermore, this agreement is in harmony with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) global efforts to promote gender equality in the maritime sector. It mirrors the fifth goal of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasizes gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. By supporting the development of AWIMA, AASTMT not only contributes to anti-discrimination efforts but also plays a pivotal role in promoting women's active involvement in maritime education and industry, aligning closely with the broader objectives of SDG 8. This partnership exemplifies how collaboration between educational institutions and organizations can be a catalyst for positive change, fostering a more inclusive and equitable maritime sector.

The event’s link on AASTMT news:

AASTMT collaborates with Arab Women in Maritime Association to fight discrimination in the Maritime Sector

Celebrating Diversity: AASTMT's Anti-Discrimination Cultural Day

The "CLC Cultural Day" organized by the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) on Tuesday, October 5, 2022, at AASTMT Miami Campus in Alexandria, embodies a strong commitment to anti-discrimination and aligns harmoniously with the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 8 (SDG 8). By showcasing diverse cultures from around the world, this event underscores AASTMT's dedication to fostering an inclusive and discrimination-free environment. It actively promotes cultural awareness and understanding, transcending boundaries, and encouraging acceptance of different backgrounds, thereby contributing to the core principles of anti-discrimination and social inclusion as outlined in SDG8.

Under the auspices of Prof. Dr. Ismail Abdel Ghafar Ismail, AASTMT President, the "CLC Cultural Day" not only celebrates cultural diversity but also highlights the importance of equal opportunities for all individuals, irrespective of their cultural backgrounds. By embracing and showcasing the richness of various cultures, AASTMT actively advances the ideals of non-discrimination, as it promotes cultural exchange, respect for diversity, and the creation of an environment where everyone's talents and contributions are valued. This event exemplifies AASTMT's dedication to fostering a campus culture that actively supports the principles of SDG 8, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and inclusive educational institution.