Page 72 - Postgraduate Handbook 2024-25

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and students. There are occasions, however, when conflicts Students can access the service and share these concerns
arise which require resolution. Such conflicts are normally through: https://ss.adu.ac.ae/complain_student .
resolved informally and in good faith between individuals
and groups through conflict resolution processes. Confidentiality
To this end, Abu Dhabi University encourages informal Confidentiality will be upheld by all parties to the highest
meetings between a grievant(s) and the respondent(s). degree possible at all stages of the grievance. This means
Abu Dhabi University also encourages the involvement of that no issue regarding the grievance will be discussed with
third parties; such as Student Council, Student Support any person who is not directly involved in the investigation.
Office personnel, and the appropriate Coordinator, Head
of Department, or Dean, all of whom are expected to assist A student may not submit a formal grievance in the
with communication and mediation. following circumstances:
In cases where the informal meetings prove unsuccessful • A grievance is against another student(s) - such
or unsatisfactory, the grievant has the right to file a formal grievances should be processed by the Code of
grievance that complies with the terms of this policy and Conduct.
its procedures. • A grievance is against personnel decisions.

Definitions • A grievance is against grades awarded in particular
courses or academic decisions regarding academic
This policy uses the following definitions: work unless there is an element of harassment and
Grievance: A request by a student for a formal investigation discrimination involved in the claim.
of decisions or actions by a faculty or staff member of the • A grievance is based on the same or similar
University that are perceived to be wrong, mistaken, unjust, circumstances that are pending resolution or have
discriminatory and in violation of the rights of the student. been resolved or are under adjudication and involve
Grievant: The person(s) who submits the grievance. the same student.
Faculty: Members of the University faculty including part- • A grievance is against a University policy or procedures,
time, full-time and non-regular faculty, such as visiting and or a University employee is acting in compliance with
adjunct faculty. those policies/procedures.
Employee: A person officially employed by Abu Dhabi Implementation
University in any capacity.
The Head of Student Support Office or the designee will
Instructor: Any person employed by the University who be responsible for the implementation of this policy. The
teaches a class, including part- time, full- time and non- implementation will comprise six phases:
regular instructors such as visiting and adjunct instructors.
1. The Head of Student Support Office forwards and
Respondent: The person or persons cited in the grievance. discusses the grievance with the Provost before
forming a Student Grievance Committee (SGC). If
Staff: Any non-teaching employee of the University, the Provost can reach a solution which satisfies
including students. the grievant, the grievance will be closed. Campus
Student: Any person who is registered for classes at Abu Directors play the role of the Provost in their campuses.
Dhabi University. 2. The SGC will comprise:
Students’ Complaints and Suggestions a. The Provost, or designee, who will serve as a
Chair.
Abu Dhabi University encourages feedback with regard to
the services that are provided to its student and believes b. The Dean of a college other than the
that everyone must share concerns, suggestions, and concerned college (to be named by the
complaints freely to ensure the University continues Provost), who will serve as a member.
to adopt the best possible standard of both academic c. One student, representing the Student
and administrative services. Besides that, the University Council will serve as a member. Decisions will
provides a fair investigation of a received complaint. be made on the basis of formal votes, in all cases.
Student complaints and suggestions are shared with 3. Final decision/recommendations will be shared with
Department heads and College Deans to look into them the concerned Department Head/Dean by the Provost.
and provide corrective actions within 5 working days.

Abu Dhabi University | Postgraduate Handbook 2024 - 2025