Students’ Welfare Policy

Contents

PART ONE

GENERAL PROVISION

1. Rationale and Objectives of the Policy

1.1 Rationale

One of the primary missions of the Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology (BAIUST) is to provide high-quality education and foster the intellectual, moral, and social development of its students. To effectively fulfill this mission, it is essential to create and maintain an environment that is not only academically enriching but also physically, emotionally, and socially supportive.

Students at BAIUST engage in a wide range of activities beyond the classroom that contribute to their overall growth and development. These include extracurricular engagements such as sports, cultural programs, leadership initiatives, religious observances, and community service. As a military-affiliated institution, BAIUST also places strong emphasis on discipline, values, and character development, all of which are integral to student life on campus.

As social beings, students interact within diverse communities, and these interactions play a vital role in shaping their university experience. It is therefore imperative that BAIUST ensures that these experiences occur within a safe, respectful, inclusive, and friendly environment. Promoting student welfare is a crucial way to support these interactions and to foster a holistic educational experience.

BAIUST Student Welfare Policy is a comprehensive document that clearly outlines the university’s approach to student welfare in a structured and unified manner.  This policy addresses and promotes various aspects of student affairs by providing a clear, detailed, and consolidated framework for ensuring the well-being of all students. This policy is designed to support the physical, emotional, academic, and social needs of students, enabling them to thrive during their time at the university and beyond.

1.2 The Objectives of the Policy

The overall objective of the BAIUST Students’ Welfare Policy is to create and maintain a learning and social environment that is secure, inclusive, and supportive of the academic, emotional, and personal growth of students. The policy is designed to uphold the values of discipline, responsibility, and integrity that define BAIUST, while promoting student well-being in all aspects of university life.

Specific Objectives:

1. To establish a well-defined and coordinated system for managing all aspects of student welfare and development.
2. To ensure students are informed and guided regarding key aspects of their academic responsibilities and social engagement.
3. To promote the physical and mental well-being of students through accessible health, counseling, and wellness services.
4. To encourage respectful, peaceful, and productive interactions among students and between students and faculty/staff.
5. To maintain a clean, secure, and conducive campus environment that supports both academic and extracurricular activities.
6. To support a healthy balance between academic pursuits and social involvement for holistic development.
7. To ensure that students’ time at BAIUST is rewarding and enriching, both academically and personally.
8. To offer individual attention and support in a safe, disciplined, and nurturing environment aligned with BAIUST’s mission.
9. To foster a sense of unity, belonging, and mutual respect among the student body.
10. To enhance students’ confidence, self-discipline, and sense of commitment toward BAIUST and their future roles in society.

1.3 Information, Advice and Support

At BAIUST, the provision of timely and effective information, advice, and support is essential to ensuring the welfare of students throughout their academic journey. These services will be coordinated primarily through the Students’ Welfare Office (SWO), working closely with relevant departments and offices across the University.

The range of information, advice, and support services available to students will include:

a) University Policies and Procedures: Guidance on all regulations, rules, and procedures related to student health, safety, welfare, and conduct.

b) Character Certification: Issuance of certificates relating to student character and conduct for employment, internships, scholarships, or further studies.

c) Career Counseling Services: Support for career planning, internship placements, CV writing, interview skills, and career development workshops.

d) Accommodation Services: Assistance in securing safe, affordable, and suitable on-campus or off-campus housing facilities.

e) Disability Support Services: Provision of assistance and reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure equal participation in academic and social activities.

f) Catering and Cafeteria Services: Monitoring and ensuring access to hygienic, affordable, and diverse food options through campus cafeterias.

g) Library and Learning Resources Services: Support through access to a modern, resource-rich library, including academic databases, research assistance, and study spaces.

h) Religious Welfare Services: Facilitating religious observances and access to spaces for prayer, meditation, and spiritual activities, respecting the diverse faiths represented among the student body.

PART TWO

POLICY ISSUES, STATEMENTS, AND STRATEGIES

2.1 Medical Services

2.1.1 Policy Issue

At Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology (BAIUST), the health and well-being of students are considered essential for their academic success and overall personal development. Acknowledging that illnesses and health emergencies can occur despite responsible living, BAIUST is dedicated to providing accessible, reliable, and high-quality medical services for all students. The university’s medical services not only focus on treatment but also emphasize preventive healthcare to minimize disruptions to learning and campus life.

BAIUST operates a University Medical Centre staffed by qualified medical professionals, including doctors and nurses. When medical conditions exceed the capabilities of the on-campus facility, students are quickly referred to established local hospitals. The SWO works in collaboration with the Medical Centre to promote preventive healthcare initiatives and support students’ medical needs, fostering a healthy campus environment.

2.1.2 Policy Statement

BAIUST’s Medical Centre shall continue to provide accessible and quality healthcare services to students, faculty, officers, and staff. The focus shall remain on both curative and preventive health services, ensuring students’ academic journeys are not hindered by preventable illnesses.

2.1.3 Strategies

The University shall:

i. Provide medical services at the University Medical Centre from 08:30 AM to 03:30 PM on all official working days.

ii. Organize regular health awareness sessions by inviting medical professionals to raise awareness on critical health issues.

iii. Maintain strong collaborative relationships with nearby reputable hospitals and clinics.

iv. Facilitate timely referrals to higher-level healthcare facilities when cases exceed the University Medical Centre’s capabilities.

v. Eliminate any form of discrimination in the provision of medical services based on gender, religion, nationality, or disability.

vi. Uphold strict confidentiality of students’ medical records and information, taking action against any breach of privacy.

vii. Comply fully with all national healthcare regulations and standards for preventive and curative services.

viii. Encourage preventive health practices by providing routine medical check-ups and health-related counseling/advice.

ix. Ensure immediate referral and appropriate support for serious mental health conditions or psychotic cases requiring specialized care.

x. Regularly review and update medical services policies and procedures to improve service quality and responsiveness.

xi. Maintain close coordination with referral hospitals to monitor and support students admitted for extended care.

xii. Promote healthy lifestyles through campus initiatives, health campaigns, and awareness programs.

xiii. Treat all students with professionalism, diligence, and fairness in all medical matters.

Students shall:

i. Live responsibly, adopting healthy habits and behaviors to minimize the risk of medical issues.

ii. Educate themselves on health matters, particularly preventive health strategies.

iii. Follow the established procedures for seeking medical services and referrals at BAIUST’s Medical Centre.

iv. Respect and maintain confidentiality around the medical services and procedures of peers.

2.2 Accommodation

2.2.1 Policy Issue

At Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology (BAIUST), it is well recognized that the quality, location, and management of student accommodation significantly affect students’ academic focus, personal discipline, physical and mental wellbeing, and social development.

BAIUST currently offers limited on-campus accommodation and has plans to expand its hostel facilities to better meet the needs of the growing student population. Additionally, students can choose off-campus housing options. The SWO and the Hall Provost oversee all accommodation matters to ensure that students are placed in environments that promote academic success and personal development.

Accommodation options consist of single, double, and shared rooms, which can accommodate between two to four students, depending on the facilities available. The daily management of residences is the responsibility of the designated Hall Supervisor and Hall Manager, with support from Student Resident Assistants. Students are encouraged to report any accommodation-related issues first to the respective Assistant Hall Provost.

2.2.2 Policy Statement

a) BAIUST shall develop and maintain a comprehensive accommodation policy detailing room allocation procedures and other relevant regulations.

b) Special consideration in accommodation shall be given to students with disabilities, students suffering from medically certified illnesses, first-year students, and female students.

c) Primarily, BAIUST Hall Management shall oversee and monitor private hostel facilities near the university and provide guidance to students regarding their suitability and safety.

2.2.3 Strategies

The University shall:

i. Charge reasonable and fair accommodation fees for university-managed hostels.

ii. Expand on-campus accommodation facilities as resources and infrastructure development plans allow.

iii. Strictly enforce hall accommodation agreements with all resident students.

iv. Regularly upgrade and maintain the standard and safety of existing halls.

v. Advise students on the quality, safety, and suitability of private halls outside the campus through the SWO.

vi. Provide detailed guidance and advice regarding off-campus accommodation during student orientation programs.

vii. Proactively identify and prioritize students with special accommodation needs during room allocation.

Students shall:

i. Abide by the terms and conditions of the university accommodation agreement.

ii. Pay accommodation fees as per the University’s official fee structure and deadlines.

iii. Report any maintenance, safety, or behavioral issues in the halls promptly to the relevant authorities.

iv. Respect and adhere to tenancy agreements if residing off-campus.

v. Maintain cleanliness, safety, and orderliness in their personal living spaces and shared hostel areas.

vi. Avoid disturbances, including playing loud music or causing unnecessary noise, to ensure a peaceful living environment for all residents.

2.3 Career Guidance

2.3.1 Policy Issue

One of the fundamental missions of the Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology (BAIUST) is to provide knowledge and skills that can be effectively applied in real-world contexts, contributing to individual advancement, community service, and national development. While academic programs primarily offer theoretical knowledge, students often require additional practical training and career-specific guidance to successfully transition into the professional world. Recognizing this gap, BAIUST places a strong emphasis on career guidance services to support students in their career planning, decision-making, and professional growth.

2.3.2 Policy Statement

BAIUST shall actively provide career guidance and support services to students through structured programs, events, and counseling sessions. The University shall encourage students to pursue knowledge, skills, and experiences that enhance their understanding of their career opportunities and prepare them for successful entry into the job market or entrepreneurial ventures.

2.3.3 Strategies

The University shall:

i) Offer entrepreneurial training programs to foster innovation, leadership, and self-employment skills among students;

ii) Organize career fairs and networking events featuring potential employers, industry leaders, and alumni;

iii) Invite guest speakers from diverse industries and professions to share insights and career experiences with students;

iv) Integrate career guidance initiatives into major university events, including prize-giving ceremonies and academic celebrations;

v) Facilitate study visits and internships with reputable organizations to provide students with exposure to real-world professional environments;

vi) Encourage and support the formation of academic and professional clubs led by students to promote career development activities;

vii) Assist students in assessing and understanding their skills, interests, values, and personal attributes relevant to career selection and work performance; and

viii) Provide updated educational and occupational information to aid students in their academic planning and career decision-making.

Students shall:

i) Abide by university regulations when establishing and operating academic or professional clubs;

ii) Actively participate in organizing and attending career development events through student leadership bodies or clubs; and

iii) Seek guidance from academic advisors, faculty members, and the Career Services Office on career-related matters.

2.4 Counselling and Advisory Services

2.4.1 Policy Issue

At the Bangladesh Army International University of Science and Technology (BAIUST), we recognize that students may face mental, emotional, and social challenges throughout their academic journey. These challenges can stem from various factors, including family issues, health problems, bereavement, social relationships, substance abuse, and academic difficulties. If not addressed appropriately, these issues can develop into more serious conditions, such as depression, which can negatively affect students’ academic performance and overall well-being. Therefore, timely and professional counseling and advisory services are essential to help students overcome these challenges and achieve both academic and personal success.

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in counseling services at BAIUST. Consultations with the SWO are confidential. However, in cases involving breaches of university regulations or potential risks to the student or others, appropriate disclosures may be made with the consent of the student where possible.

2.4.2 Policy Statement

BAIUST is committed to providing a robust, confidential, and responsive system of counselling and advisory services to address the evolving psychological, emotional, and academic needs of students, ensuring their holistic development and academic success.

2.4.3 Strategies

The University shall:

i). Strengthen its Counseling Unit by recruiting qualified professional counsellors and providing necessary resources;

ii) Assign an academic advisor to each student to support their academic progression and personal development;

iii) Strengthen the Office of the Dean of Students to oversee and coordinate all student welfare services;

iv) Provide individual support, guidance, and counseling on personal welfare matters such as psychological trauma, stress, bereavement, relationship and family issues, mental health challenges, substance and alcohol abuse, and threats;

v) Offer ongoing individual and group counseling to assist students dealing with social, psychological, or emotional difficulties;

vi) Provide prompt referrals for students experiencing acute emotional distress to specialized service providers;

vii) Ensure the confidentiality of counseling sessions and maintain proper records with utmost care and professionalism.

Students shall:

i) Actively utilize the services of the Guidance and Counseling Department;

ii) Engage with their academic advisors and seek academic and general advice when needed;

iii) Seek assistance and general guidance from the Office of the Dean of Students whenever required.

The SWO shall:

i) Deliver counseling services with due diligence, empathy, and professionalism;

ii) Safeguard the confidentiality of all student information obtained through counseling sessions;

iii) Develop, review, and implement counseling guidelines and procedures to continually enhance service quality.