CaL-Poly San Louis Obispo to Discriminate Against Saudi Women

For the past year, Cal-Poly, San Luis Obispo has been engaged in talks with the Saudi Arabian government to set up an engineering program at Jubail University. The catch to this seemingly great international opportunity is that women will not be able to attend classes or teach in the program. This is a giant step backwards for a progressive educational institute that is one of the top schools in the state. Women make up 44% of the student body and should be represented in equal numbers at any counterpart school. In addition women faculty members would be passed over when the administration places professors in Saudi Arabia. Respecting another country’s customs is one thing, but sacrificing women’s rights in a field of study that needs more women, is just wrong. It also sends a dangerous signal to Saudi Arabian women- we are not willing to support women beyond our borders.

Cal Poly is a state school that relies on government funding. If Cal-Poly were to suggest an educational program in California that did not allow women, the proposal would never be accepted. Both Saudi Arabian women and American women would be discriminated against, as neither would be allowed at the school. We all know the value of studying aboard. One can learn and benefit a great deal from immersing themselves in foreign cultures. However, the point is that everyone should get an opportunity to experience these fundamental global exchanges--not just the men. Tell Ca-Poly how you feel about this!