5.6 Progress Measures
5.6.1 & 5.6.2 Policy of Non-discrimination
5.6.3 Maternity Policy
5.6.4 & 5.6.5 Childcare facilities for Students, Staff & Faculty
5.6.6 Women’s Mentoring Schemes
5.6.7 Track Women’s Graduation Rate
5.6.8 Policy Protecting Those Reporting Discrimination
5.6.9 Paternity Policy
Childcare Support and Family-Friendly Policies
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) recognizes the vital importance of supporting parents—especially mothers—in pursuing their academic and professional goals without interruption. In alignment with SDG 5.6.4 (Childcare Facilities for Students) and SDG 5.6.5 (Childcare Facilities for Staff and Faculty), the University is committed to creating an inclusive, family-friendly environment that enables all members of its community to thrive. Additionally, GUST location is considered to be a strategic spot as different kindergarten and schools are located within (5 mins drive), making it much easier for parents within the GUST community to reach their children within a very short time.
Childcare Support for Staff and Faculty (SDG 5.6.5)
GUST offers free comprehensive childcare support to faculty and administrative staff as part of its employee benefits package and has the highest paid amount among all universities in Kuwait. Faculty members of certain grade levels are eligible for child education assistance, which covers tuition fees for up to three children from kindergarten through high school. This financial support ensures that working parents—particularly women—can continue their professional careers while meeting family obligations.
This initiative reflects GUST’s understanding of the challenges faced by working parents and its commitment to promoting work-life balance, career retention, and gender equality in the workplace.
In addition to financial support, the University provides flexible work arrangements and academic scheduling accommodations when needed to help employees manage both work and family responsibilities effectively.
Support for Student Parents (SDG 5.6.4)
GUST fosters a supportive environment for student parents, including those returning to studies after childbirth. Academic advisors and the Office of Student Affairs provide personalized support, flexible scheduling options, and academic counseling to help student mothers balance coursework with parental responsibilities.
Through these ongoing measures, GUST continues to strengthen its institutional framework for family support and gender inclusion, enabling both students and employees with children to participate fully in university life.
By prioritizing family-friendly policies, GUST advances the objectives of SDG 5: Gender Equality, particularly in promoting the participation, retention, and success of women in higher education and the workforce.
