1. Introduction

At DMU, our commitment to peace, justice, and strong institutions is reflected in our governance systems, student engagement frameworks, ethical leadership, and community‑centred practices. SDG 16 promotes peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice for all, and effective, accountable institutions—values which are embedded in DMU’s structure and operations.

2. Institutional Governance and Ethics

DMU operates under a robust and transparent governance framework. Policies published via the QAIE Portal include:

·         A Policies & Procedures Manual (PPM) outlining academic and administrative governance.

·         A clearly defined Board of Trustees governance structure with oversight roles.

·         A Conflict of Interest Policy ensuring transparency in institutional decisions.

·         A dedicated QA & Institutional Effectiveness Unit (QAIE) for planning, evaluation, and risk management.

·         The comprehensive Ethical Practices Policy (I.6) which defines standards of ethical conduct for students, faculty, staff, and affiliates. It addresses:

o   Non-discrimination, equal opportunity, and anti-harassment protections.

o   Academic and research ethics, including IRB compliance, transparency, and responsible conduct.

o   Governance ethics, financial integrity, whistleblower protection, and conflict-of-interest disclosure.

o   Ethical procurement, prevention of forced labor, and protections for outsourced personnel.

·         Together, these policies institutionalize DMU’s commitment to equity, accountability, ethical governance, and compliance with UAE and international human rights frameworks.

Source: DMU QA Policies page – “Policies & Procedures Manual (PPM)”.

3. Student Representation and Participatory Leadership

The DMU Student Council serves as the formal body representing students in institutional governance. The council organised dialogues with leadership to promote fairness, safety and inclusion. Members participated in university policy discussions, voicing concerns and helping co‑develop solutions.  Leadership development programmes empowered students to advocate ethically and lead responsibly.

Source: Student Council webpage.

4. Community Engagement

DMU’s outreach includes initiatives that promote equity, awareness and ethical behaviour in society:

·         Sharjah Elderly & Orphans Home Visit (April 2024): Students led sessions on medication safety for vulnerable groups, fostering inclusion and intergenerational respect—a core pillar of peaceful, just societies.

·         Tarahum for Gaza (Oct 2023): 22 DMU students volunteered in a humanitarian relief campaign organised by the Emirates Red Crescent, contributing to social cohesion and solidarity.

Source: DPC newsletters.

DMU’s implementation of SDG 16 reflects a holistic approach—combining strong internal governance with community‑oriented ethical practice. Through its commitment to justice, inclusion, student leadership and institutional transparency, DMU is cultivating the next generation of ethical healthcare professionals and contributing to the creation of peaceful, accountable societies.