Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Training on the Social Aspects of Sustainability for Staff Members

1. Focus on Campus Safety and Prevention of Sexual Harassment

A dedicated training session was organized by the Complaint Committee to Prevent Sexual Harassment, facilitated by Prof. Dr. Mehtab Khanam, focusing on:

●       Prevention of gender-based violence,

●       Understanding root causes of harassment,

●       Cultivating a respectful and empathetic workplace.

This initiative directly addresses SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and demonstrates DIU’s proactive commitment to building a safe and inclusive campus culture.

2. International Women’s Day: Training through Celebration and Dialogue

As part of staff engagement under social sustainability, DIU observed International Women’s Day with:

●       A staff-inclusive rally,

●       A symbolic cake-cutting ceremony,

●       Workshops and dialogues on gender justice and women’s empowerment.

These inclusive activities promoted equity, recognition, and institutional advocacy, advancing SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

3. World Mental Health Day 2024: Seminar & Workshop for Staff

Organized by the Psychological Service Unit and the Office of Student Affairs, two major activities focused on workplace well-being:

●       A seminar by Dr. Mahjabeen Haque on "Mental Health at the Workplace"

●       An interactive workshop by Ms. Zohora Parveen on "Balancing Well-being at the Workplace"

These sessions empowered staff to manage stress, enhance work-life balance, and cultivate resilience—supporting SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).

4. Oath-Taking Ceremony Against Violence Against Women and Children

Held across multiple campuses, this multi-day program was part of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, where staff, faculty, and students united to:

●       Take a stand against gender-based violence,

●       Promote safe and respectful environments,

●       Encourage reporting and support mechanisms.

This awareness-building event aligns with SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by reinforcing institutional commitment to equity and justice.

5. “NEXTGEN Leaders’ League” – Staff & Faculty Leadership Engagement

Although designed primarily for emerging leaders, this program included faculty and staff mentors who participated in:

●       Training sessions on leadership in crisis,

●       Workshops on inclusive leadership and communication,

●       Advocacy for gender-balanced leadership.

This fosters a culture of socially responsible leadership and aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

6. Faculty Onboarding and Staff Orientation Programs

During the Spring 2025 onboarding of 62 new faculty members, sessions were held on:

●       Institutional values of equity and sustainability,

●       Academic norms promoting inclusive practices,

●       Integration of AI and technology to reduce inequalities in education.

These programs emphasize DIU’s systemic training approach to ensure new staff embrace the university’s social sustainability goals from the outset.

7. Shaping the Future: Institutional Development and AI Integration Session

A dynamic internal session brought together faculty and staff to explore academic norms, artificial intelligence integration, research funding strategies, and HR services. Facilitated by DIU’s leadership, the session emphasized the evolving responsibilities of academic and administrative staff and their role in institutional innovation. This knowledge-sharing initiative supports the social pillar of sustainability through inclusive professional development and aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

8. “Change Together” Program for Skill Development and Micro-Credentials

Led by Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Founder & Chairman of the Daffodil Family, the “Change Together” program emphasized the importance of continuous professional development. The session introduced the concept of micro-credentials and their role in upskilling, fostering a forward-thinking and innovation-driven workplace. A special fund of BDT 2 crore was announced to support micro-credential training, which recognizes and empowers staff efforts through certification, boosting institutional capacity aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8.