Community Engagement and Stakeholder Relations Policy

1. Policy Statement

Swiss International University (SIU) is committed to building meaningful, transparent, and sustainable relationships with external stakeholders, including local communities, public institutions, industries, non-governmental organizations, and cultural bodies. This policy outlines the institutional framework for identifying and engaging with stakeholders to support mutual growth, promote community well-being, and contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Through structured collaboration, SIU ensures that its presence in Switzerland, Dubai, Kyrgyzstan, and other locations reflects responsibility, inclusion, and cultural awareness, while enhancing the university's academic and social impact.

 

2. Objectives

This policy aims to:

• Establish a systematic process for identifying key external stakeholders in each region where SIU operates.

• Promote active engagement through partnerships, dialogue, and shared initiatives.

• Ensure that stakeholder perspectives inform university policies, planning, and development.

• Support SIU’s mission to be a socially responsive and community-oriented institution.

• Contribute positively to local sustainability, education, heritage preservation, and innovation.

 

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All SIU campuses and divisions (Switzerland, Dubai, Kyrgyzstan, and affiliated locations)

• All academic, administrative, research, and outreach units

• All levels of external engagement (local, regional, and global)

 

4. Stakeholders Defined

SIU recognizes external stakeholders as individuals or groups who are affected by, interested in, or contribute to the university’s operations. These include, but are not limited to:

• Municipal and regional authorities

• Community and civic organizations

• Non-profit and international agencies

• Industry partners and employers

• Cultural, religious, and heritage institutions

• Local residents and citizens' groups

• Primary and secondary educational institutions

 

5. Engagement Principles

All stakeholder engagement must uphold the following principles:

• Respect & Inclusivity: All voices, particularly underrepresented groups, are valued.

• Transparency & Accountability: Clear communication about decisions and impacts.

• Collaboration & Reciprocity: Engagement should benefit both the university and stakeholders.

• Sustainability & Long-Term Impact: Initiatives should aim for lasting, community-positive outcomes.

 

6. Engagement Procedures

6.1 Stakeholder Identification

• Each campus shall maintain an updated Stakeholder Map, reviewed annually.

• Identification is based on shared interests, community impact, regulatory relevance, and strategic alignment.

6.2 Modes of Engagement

SIU shall engage stakeholders through:

• Public forums, town hall meetings, and consultation sessions

• Joint events, heritage and cultural projects

• Collaborative research, service-learning, and internship programs

• Strategic partnerships and MOUs

• Community-focused educational programs

6.3 Governance Participation

• Stakeholder input will be considered in strategic planning, curriculum review, infrastructure projects, and sustainability efforts.

• External community representatives may be invited to advisory committees and institutional panels where appropriate.

 

7. Institutional Responsibilities

• Office of External Relations & Community Engagement (ERCE)
  Leads coordination, maintains documentation, and ensures alignment with university goals.

• Campus Directors
  Implement local stakeholder engagement strategies and ensure compliance with this policy.

• Academic and Administrative Units
  Proactively build partnerships aligned with their mission and report engagement outcomes annually.

 

8. Monitoring and Evaluation

• An Annual Community Engagement Report will summarize stakeholder activities, outcomes, and future plans.

• The policy will be reviewed every 12 months by the Sustainability & Engagement Council to assess effectiveness and update procedures.

 

9. Communication and Contact

All inquiries, proposals, and stakeholder correspondence should be directed to the below contact form

SIU welcomes ongoing collaboration with all members of society as we work to build inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities through education, innovation, and shared values.