International Women’s Day: Towards Gender Equality - Best Practices at Prince Sultan University

International Women day reminds us of the collective action and shared ownership for driving gender parity. Gender equality as well as equity is a critical issue in today's world, and it is no exception in educational institutions. Prince Sultan University (PSU), located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has been at the forefront of efforts to address gender equality within its organization. Several best practices can be found including provision of equal opportunities for men and women employees to contribute to policy development, governance, and decision-making processes. As they equally participate in committees at the Institution, college and department level based on their skills, qualifications, and expertise. Another practice is related to gender pay equity. Gender pay equity refers to the principle of ensuring that individuals, irrespective of their gender, receive equal compensation for performing the same or similar work. It is a fundamental component of gender equality, a cornerstone of human rights and social justice. Gender pay disparities can have a profound impact on individuals and society as a whole. At PSU, addressing this issue aligns with the broader goals of promoting gender equality in Saudi Arabia's educational sector. PSU adheres to Saudi Arabia's labor laws, which prohibit gender-based wage discrimination. These laws require equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender. PSU ensures compliance with these regulations to establish a foundation for pay equity. Secondly, Transparency is key to addressing gender pay disparities. PSU has implemented measures to make salary structures more transparent, allowing employees to understand the criteria for compensation and facilitating discussions about pay equity. Third, Equal opportunity: PSU has implemented policies that promote equal opportunity for all employees, irrespective of gender. These policies encompass recruitment, career advancement, and access to leadership positions. Periodic pay audits are conducted to identify and rectify any gender-based wage gaps that may exist. These audits help PSU identify areas where corrective action is needed and ensure ongoing commitment to pay equity. Gender pay equity is a vital aspect of creating an inclusive and equitable work environment at Prince Sultan University. PSU's commitment to addressing these challenges demonstrates its dedication to promoting gender equality within the organization. By fostering a culture of transparency, equality, and education, PSU continues to work towards achieving gender equality and gender pay equity, setting an example for educational institutions in Saudi Arabia and beyond.