4.4 First-Generation Students

Tracking and support mechanisms for first-generation students to enhance enrolment, retention, and graduation success.

Introduction:

Palestine Ahliya University (PAU) is firmly committed to advancing social mobility, equity, and inclusive access to higher education by supporting first-generation students—those whose parents or guardians have not obtained a university degree. As a pioneering private institution in Bethlehem, PAU recognizes the significant academic, social, and financial challenges that many first-generation learners face, and implements a wide range of initiatives to ensure that all students have equitable opportunities for admission, persistence, and graduation.

Through its Student Support and Empowerment Framework, coordinated by the Deanship of Student Affairs, PAU provides targeted mentoring, personalized academic advising, and financial assistance to help first-generation students navigate university life successfully. Academic staff and advisors maintain close follow-up on students’ progress to identify and address learning or adjustment challenges early, ensuring that no student is left behind.

The university also conducts orientation sessions, skills-building workshops, and leadership development programs aimed at strengthening students’ self-confidence, academic engagement, and social integration. Furthermore, PAU promotes a culture of peer support through student clubs and volunteer initiatives that encourage mutual assistance and community belonging.

Financial inclusivity is another cornerstone of PAU’s commitment. The university offers scholarships, tuition discounts, and flexible payment plans to alleviate financial burdens for students from disadvantaged or first-generation backgrounds. These mechanisms reflect PAU’s mission to make higher education accessible and equitable for all segments of society.

By integrating academic support, financial aid, and social empowerment, Palestine Ahliya University ensures that first-generation students not only access higher education but also succeed and graduate with strong professional and civic competencies. This institutional commitment contributes directly to achieving SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by promoting upward social mobility, inclusive learning environments, and lifelong opportunity for all learners.