Training on Environmental Aspect of Sustainability 2024
Training on the Environmental Aspects of Sustainability for Staff Members
1. Emergency Fire Evacuation Drill 2025 at Knowledge Tower, DIU
To promote environmental safety and disaster resilience, DIU conducted a comprehensive Fire Evacuation Drill at its Knowledge Tower campus in early 2025. This initiative was aimed at increasing staff and faculty awareness of emergency preparedness, safety protocols, and basic firefighting techniques.
Participants included academic and administrative staff alongside students, who were trained on:
● Emergency evacuation procedures,
● Safe use of fire extinguishers,
● Basic firefighting strategies, and
● Coordination during crisis scenarios.
The session, guided by fire safety professionals and the university's internal safety team, aligns with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by enhancing institutional resilience and environmental safety practices.
2. “Powering Workplace Efficiency Through Professionalism” Training
Organized by the Office of Maintenance, this training targeted over 600 support staff and focused on maintaining an efficient and sustainable workplace. While centered on professionalism, the training also covered:
● Sustainable maintenance practices,
● Responsible use of resources (energy, water, materials),
● Clean and safe working environments.
By empowering staff with knowledge on efficient workplace management, DIU ensured long-term operational sustainability, contributing to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
3. ‘Food Matters: Waste Not, Want Not’ – Media Advocacy by Staff Supervisors and Students
Although conducted by MSS students, the campaign was facilitated by university staff and academic supervisors, contributing to awareness and education about sustainable food systems. This initiative aimed at:
● Reducing food waste,
● Promoting responsible consumption,
● Advocating sustainable habits among campus stakeholders.
This hands-on advocacy and training connects with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
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.
