Gulf Medical University (GMU) embodies a strong commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5), focusing on achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. This commitment is not merely verbalized but actively integrated into GMU's diverse array of academic, clinical, and research activities during the Academic Year (2023-2024).

GMU has been progressing its endeavors for achieving SDG 5, some of them include the following:

·       The percentage of female students is higher than that of male students.

·       Equality in employment

·       Community Engagement

·       Research and Publications

·       Providing recreational facilities for female students and female employees

The percentage of female students is higher than that of male students.

During the 2023-2024 academic year, Gulf Medical University (GMU) has observed a significant milestone in its commitment to gender equality: female students and graduates now outnumber their male counterparts. This achievement reflects GMU's ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity, ensuring equal opportunities for all in medical and healthcare education.

Figures 1 and 2 illustrate this progress, showcasing a higher ratio of female-to-male enrollment and graduation rates. This demographic shift underscores GMU's dedication to empowering women in healthcare, successfully addressing gender disparities in the field.

GMU is proud of its role in advancing gender equality, as demonstrated by the outstanding accomplishments of its female students and graduates. These achievements not only highlight the university's equitable approach to education but also emphasize the growing impact of women in healthcare and medicine.

Figure 1: The Female to Male student ratio for the AY 2023-2024

Figure 2:The ratio of Female graduates to Male graduates AY 2023-2024

Equality in employment

At Gulf Medical University (GMU), the commitment to equality in employment is at the core of its values. The university takes proactive measures to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, race, or background, have equal access to opportunities for professional growth and development. GMU's policies emphasize a merit-based approach in hiring and promotions, fostering an inclusive environment where talent and dedication are the primary determinants of success.

Figure 3 shows a small difference in the percentage between female and male employees.

Figure 3: The ratio of Female employee to Male employee

Women hold leadership and administrative positions in the university

At Gulf Medical University (GMU), the empowerment of women extends beyond the classroom, with a significant presence of female leaders in various leadership and administrative roles. This progressive approach not only demonstrates GMU's unwavering commitment to gender equality but also underscores the recognition of women's valuable contributions to the institution. These women bring diverse perspectives and expertise to their positions, enriching the decision-making process and fostering an inclusive environment. Their presence serves as an inspiration for students, showing them that gender should never be a barrier to achieving the highest levels of leadership. Through their dedication and competence, these women leaders contribute significantly to the continued success and progress of GMU.

Average Salary of Different Position Classified by Gender:

The Quality Assurance and Institutional Effectiveness unit along with the HR Department monitor the percent difference in pay scale between male and female employees on annual basis. The actions taken and internal control succeeded to keep the overall difference in pay scale between male and female employees in the range below 10% and the same difference as well for each category of faculty and staff.

Figure 4: Average Salary of Different Positions Classified by Gender

Research and Publications

In the domain of research and publications at Gulf Medical University (GMU), a steadfast commitment to gender equality resonates profoundly. The university not only advocates for the inclusion and recognition of women researchers but actively strives to create an environment where their voices are amplified. Initiatives promoting gender-balanced research teams and encouraging women to lead projects are prioritized. This concerted effort ensures that diverse perspectives inform groundbreaking studies and innovative discoveries. GMU recognizes that true progress in academia requires the full participation and representation of all genders. As a result, the research landscape at GMU is characterized by a dynamic and inclusive approach, ultimately advancing the frontiers of knowledge in healthcare and medicine for the betterment of all.

Community Engagement

Emirati Women’s Day Celebration

On August 28, 2024, Gulf Medical University (GMU) hosted a vibrant celebration to commemorate Emirati Women's Day

Honoring Women in Pharmacy – A Gala of Achievements at GMU’s College of Pharmacy International Women’s Day Celebration

On March 6th, 2024, the College of Pharmacy at Gulf Medical University organized an event in honor of the International Women’s Day. The occasion served as a tribute to the remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions of women in the healthcare profession, with a particular focus on the accomplishments in the pharmacy sector in the UAE.

  Panel Discussion with the GMU Faculty on International Women’s Day

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Gulf Medical University (GMU) held a thought-provoking panel discussion on March 5, 2024, featuring esteemed female faculty members. The event focused on the theme of “Empowering Women in Healthcare Leadership,” highlighting the vital role women play in shaping the future of healthcare.

“Breaking Barriers: Empowering Women, Eradicating Cervical Cancer – A Campaign of Hope and Health”

On January 14, 2024, the Hall of Brilliant International Private School, Sharjah was filled with an aura of shared commitment to community well-being as students from Gulf Medical University enrolled in the medical, nursing, and physiotherapy programs united for a vital cause. Together, they conducted an interprofessional community engagement activity centered around the early diagnosis and prevention of cervical cancer. This initiative, organized to commemorate Cervical Health Awareness Month 2024, marked an important chapter in the collective efforts to raise awareness and combat cervical cancer.

Breast Cancer Awareness at Al Qassimi Women and Childrens Hospital, Sharjah

The Breast Cancer Awareness Program was held on October 16, 2023, under the theme "Close the Care Gap" at Al Qassimi Women and Children Hospital, Sharjah. Organized as part of a community engagement initiative, the event was led by fourth-year BSN students from the 2020 batch in collaboration with AQWCH.

Research and Publications

·       Dr. Rania Zaarour was Awarded a Research Grant for Innovative Cancer Study at Women’s Research Forum

In a significant stride towards advancing cancer research, Dr. Rania Zaarour and her team at the Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine (TRIPM) of the Gulf Medical University (GMU), have been awarded a prestigious research grant for their innovative work. Their project, which explores the role of the hypoxic secretome in modulating tumor cell behaviors, received the accolade at the Fourth Forum for Women in Research, titled “QUWA: Sustaining Women’s Empowerment in Research & Innovation,” organized by the University of Sharjah.

Providing recreational facilities for female students and female employees

At Gulf Medical University (GMU), inclusivity extends to every aspect of campus life, including recreational facilities. The university is dedicated to ensuring that female students and employees have access to a wide range of recreational opportunities that cater specifically to their needs and preferences. GMU has invested in creating safe and welcoming spaces that promote physical well-being, relaxation, and social interaction. These facilities are designed with the diverse interests of women in mind, offering a variety of activities that cater to different tastes and fitness levels.

Accommodation

GMU hostels offer clean, safe and furnished accommodation in Ajman, for its students. The hostels are located in Al Jurf area (behind the campus – approximately few minutes by bus from the campus) and house undergraduate and graduate male and female students, supervised by a hostel warden. The University provides safe transportation to and from the hostels.

Some of the facilities available at the hostels:

·       Centralized air-conditioning

·       Laundering, maintenance and housekeeping

·       Water-coolers provided on all floors

·       Wi-Fi with internet

·       Medical support facilities at Thumbay Hospitals

·       Transportation to & from the University during University hours

·       Weekend visits to Dubai & Sharjah malls arranged on request

·       Recreation facility: Special packages for hostel students at Body & Soul Health Club

·       Mess Facility available from The Terrace Restaurant with special packages including buffet in the hostel premises

·       Full time warden and security

Nearby Facilities: City Centre – Ajman, Carrefour, Safeer Mall (including a hypermarket, cinemas and amusement arcades, money exchanges, banking services, restaurants, cafes and food courts), City Life Mall, Grand Centrale Mall, Terrace Restaurant, Blends & Brew Coffee Shop, Body & Soul Health Club & Spa.

Body and Soul Health Club and Spa

Gulf Medical University (GMU) is committed to ensuring the well-being and holistic development of its female students and employees. As part of this commitment, GMU provides access to premium recreational facilities, including the Body & Soul Health Club & Spa located at Thumbay Medcity in Al Jurf, Ajman.

The club is first of its kind in Ajman offering extensive sports, recreation, fitness, health, social and youth programs. The Club is located on the grounds of the Gulf Medical University with very easy access from Ajman and with ample parking. The facilities include a luxury family pool and deck, an extensive fitness suite with a view, dance and yoga studios, a 3 court tennis center with our very own pro, badminton, squash, volleyball and basketball courts, a soccer/cricket pitch and a ladies only section with a gym and private access to the ladies pool.

Additionally, GMU extends special discounts and offers to its employees, further demonstrating its dedication to their welfare. Moreover, enrolled students enjoy complimentary access to these facilities. Notably, the health club also features a dedicated kids' play area, providing valuable support to both student mothers and employees seeking to balance their personal and professional responsibilities. This initiative exemplifies GMU's unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all its members.