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Subsidized Accommodation Facilities:
Recognizing that housing expenses can be a significant barrier for low-income students, DIU offers subsidized on-campus accommodation. In 2024, 3,486 male and 1,873 female students took advantage of these affordable housing options. These facilities ensure that students from financially constrained backgrounds have access to safe and stable living environments close to campus, eliminating the need for costly commutes or external housing. By providing accessible and affordable housing, DIU helps students focus on their studies without the financial and logistical worries associated with securing and paying for accommodation, ultimately promoting better academic retention and completion rates.
https://hall.daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/
Subsidized Food Programs:
To address food insecurity, which can negatively impact student well-being and academic performance, DIU provides subsidized meal options on campus through facilities such as Green-Garden and Startup Foods. With more than 15,200 students benefiting from these affordable food services, the program ensures that students have access to nutritious meals throughout the day, regardless of their financial background. By making essential meals accessible, DIU reduces the risk of students skipping meals due to financial hardship, helping them maintain their health and energy levels, which are critical for academic success.
One Student One Laptop Initiative:
In response to the digital divide faced by many low-income students, DIU launched the “One Student One Laptop” program. Under this initiative, students who lack financial resources to purchase their own laptops receive free devices, ensuring they have the technology necessary for academic work, research, and online learning. By 2024, DIU had distributed over 45,000 laptops through this program. This initiative is particularly impactful as it levels the playing field, allowing students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to fully participate in digital coursework, complete assignments, and access online resources critical for their studies.
Emergency Financial Relief through Insurance Partnerships:
DIU has partnered with Prime Islami Life Insurance Limited to provide financial relief to students who experience unexpected hardships, such as the death of a guardian or sudden financial crises. This program offers emergency financial aid, ensuring that students can continue their studies uninterrupted despite unforeseen challenges. For example, 40 students each received 3 lakh TK under this initiative, which covered their tuition and living expenses. This safety net is crucial for low-income students who lack financial security, helping them stay focused on their academic goals without the constant worry of economic instability.
Healthcare Services and Medical Assistance
DIU is proactive in providing healthcare support to underprivileged students and community members through initiatives led by the Daffodil Bandhushobha student club. As part of their community outreach, they organized free healthcare services for over 200 people in Ashulia, Dhaka, which included general health check-ups and consultations. These healthcare services ensure that students from low-income backgrounds have access to essential medical support, reducing the risk of health-related disruptions to their education and promoting overall well-being.
https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/medical/diu-medical-center
Affordable and Accessible Transportation
DIU has implemented transportation support to make commuting to campus easier and more affordable for students, particularly those from low-income families who may live far from campus. The university provides bicycles, electric vehicles, and shuttle buses to facilitate affordable and environmentally friendly transportation. By minimizing transportation costs and logistical challenges, DIU ensures that low-income students can attend classes and participate in campus activities without the burden of high travel expenses, thus improving attendance and engagement.
https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/article/transport
Legal Assistance and Mentoring Programs
DIU’s Office of the Proctor offers a range of support services, including legal assistance, mentoring, and counseling. The proctorial team works closely with students from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring they have access to the resources and guidance necessary for academic and personal success. Additionally, DIU has established policies to create an inclusive, safe environment, including anti-harassment measures and non-discrimination policies. These programs help address any social or legal challenges that might affect low-income students, offering a supportive community that encourages persistence and completion.
https://daffodilvarsity.edu.bd/proctor-office
Skill Development Programs with Financial Incentives:
DIU has implemented skill development and training programs for low-income students that not only equip them with valuable skills but also provide financial incentives. For instance, the university organizes workshops and short courses in areas such as IT, entrepreneurship, and digital marketing, which are often sponsored or subsidized to make them accessible to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These programs are designed to increase the employability of students, ensuring they can secure well-paying jobs after graduation and break the cycle of poverty.
Career Counseling and Job Placement Services:
DIU provides dedicated career counseling and job placement services to help low-income students transition smoothly from education to employment. The university has established partnerships with various companies and organizations to offer internships and job opportunities specifically for students who may face financial challenges. Career counselors work individually with students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to tailor job search strategies, assist with resume writing, and prepare them for interviews. This support is crucial in ensuring that students can secure stable employment and achieve financial independence after graduation.
https://cdc.daffodilvarsity.edu.bd
Mental Health and Wellness Support:
Recognizing that financial stress can have significant impacts on mental health, DIU offers free or low-cost counseling and mental health services. The university’s counseling center provides individual and group therapy sessions, workshops on stress management, and mental health awareness campaigns. By addressing the psychological well-being of low-income students, DIU ensures that financial hardships do not adversely affect their academic performance and overall university experience.