M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University's Policy on Ensuring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and Preventing Discrimination

1. Introduction

1.1. The Non-Profit Limited Company "M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University" (hereinafter referred to as the University), as an educational and scientific center, participates in shaping a sustainable future.

1.2. The University strives to integrate the principles of sustainable development into its strategies, processes, and decision-making.

1.3. The Policy on Ensuring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and Preventing Discrimination (hereinafter referred to as “the Policy”) has been developed in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the University Charter. It defines the approaches to creating an inclusive educational and working environment that ensures equal opportunities for all members of the university community, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, social background, religious beliefs, health status, sexual orientation, or other characteristics.

1.4. This Policy is based on the principles of fairness, equal opportunity, and respect for the unique attributes of every individual.

1.5. The purpose of this Policy is to support equality, diversity, and inclusion at the University by creating conditions that promote equal participation, access, and respect for all members of the university community.

1.6. The University’s objectives in implementing this EDI and Anti-Discrimination Policy are as follows:

1) to ensure equal access to educational, research, administrative, and other opportunities for all members of the university community;

2) to foster a culture of respect, acceptance, and mutual understanding regardless of socio-demographic, cultural, ethnic, or other differences;

3) to develop and maintain inclusive infrastructure that meets the needs of various student and staff groups;

4) to implement educational and awareness-raising programs aimed at cultivating inclusive thinking and increasing awareness of human rights;

5) to prevent and promptly respond to cases of discrimination, bias, and unethical behavior;

6) to ensure transparency in recruitment, promotion, and performance evaluation procedures in line with the principles of fairness and equality;

7) to support student and academic initiatives that contribute to strengthening diversity and inclusion in the university environment;

8) to cooperate with national and international partners to promote inclusive practices in education and to align economic, environmental, and social goals in the context;

9) of long-term sustainable development, including the creation of long-term value for shareholders and investors.

2. Key Provisions

2.1. The University is committed to creating a safe, comfortable, and respectful environment where no one is subjected to discrimination or psychological abuse based on race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or other factors.

2.2. The University ensures equal opportunities for all members of the community in access to education, employment, professional development, and participation in decision-making by eliminating systemic barriers and inequalities that may hinder the development of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

2.3. The University designs educational programs that reflect student diversity and promote active engagement in the learning process. Different learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and student needs are considered to help each individual reach their full potential.

2.4. The University actively supports diversity within its community by attracting and retaining students and staff from various backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and perspectives.

2.5. The University promotes awareness and education on EDI principles through training sessions, seminars, conferences, and other events aimed at enhancing understanding of the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

2.6. The University monitors and evaluates its efforts in the area of EDI to ensure their effectiveness and implement necessary improvements.

2.7. The University ensures accessible and transparent mechanisms for reporting, reviewing, and resolving cases of discrimination, bias, and other violations of equality principles, while upholding confidentiality and fairness.

2.8. The University develops inclusive physical and digital infrastructure to ensure accessibility of the educational environment, workspaces, and living facilities for all, including individuals with disabilities and other special needs.

2.9. The University provides support to students and staff with disabilities through advisory assistance, individual guidance, and other targeted measures.

2.10. The University implements a reasonable accommodation policy that involves adapting educational and working conditions for individuals with disabilities.

2.11. The University encourages the participation of individuals from diverse groups in governing bodies, working groups, and advisory councils, ensuring that every community member’s voice is heard.

2.12. The University builds partnerships with external organizations and communities to exchange experiences and enhance the positive impact of equality and inclusion policies beyond the campus.

2.13. The University maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of discrimination, including but not limited to discrimination based on gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, political beliefs, disability, age, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.

2.14. The University takes preventive measures against discriminatory practices in the educational process, employment relations, and all areas of interaction within the university community.

2.15. All reported cases of alleged discrimination are subject to careful and impartial review, in accordance with the principles of confidentiality, fairness, and protection of the rights of all parties involved.

2.16. The University is committed to fostering a culture of respect, where diversity is valued and every individual feels recognized, safe, and included in academic and social life.

3. Final Provisions

3.1. All university departments take into account the provisions of this Policy in their activities and contribute to achieving the declared goals and objectives in the field of sustainable development.

3.2. The University’s Board oversees the implementation of the Policy and ensures its integration into key management processes.

3.3. This Policy is subject to regular review in response to changes in the external environment, international standards, and university priorities. Amendments and additions may be made as necessary to enhance its effectiveness.

3.4. This Policy affirms the University’s strategic commitment to the principles of sustainable development, the creation of favorable conditions for long-term growth, and the strengthening of its position as a responsible institution that supports environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.