GSTU Launches Self-Reliance Scheme for Students
For the first time, Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU) has introduced the “Self-Reliance Programme” aimed at engaging students in various institutional activities. Under this three-month initiative, beginning July 1 and continuing through September 30, a total of 100 students from 34 academic departments will have the opportunity to develop eight categories of professional skills alongside their academic education. Each student will receive a monthly stipend of BDT 2,000 during the programme.
The university administration believes that this programme will enhance students' work efficiency, diligence, and preparedness for employment, in addition to their academic development. The inauguration ceremony for the Self-Reliance Programme was held on June 26 (Thursday) in Room 305 of the Academic Building, organized by the Office of Student Counselling and Guidance. Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Hossain Uddin Shekhar formally inaugurated the programme.
The event was attended by Dr. Mohammad Anisur Rahman, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Arifuzzaman Rajib, Proctor, and Md. Badrul Islam, Director of the Student Counselling and Guidance Office.
The programme includes eight categories—Safety Buddy, Medical Buddy, Library Buddy, Transport Buddy, Engineering Buddy, Daycare Buddy, and Hall Buddy—under the supervision of eight faculty members. Participating students will be assigned roles within these teams.
Marium Parvin, one of the students involved, said, “Through this programme, we will learn about responsibilities alongside our studies. This will enhance our experience and benefit us in our careers, as well as financially.”
Another participant, Nahida Islam Nodi, said, “This is a great initiative for us students. It will boost our work efficiency and diligence.”
Speaking at the event, Treasurer Professor Dr. Mohammad Nazmul Ahsan remarked, “Abroad, students often work alongside their studies. In contrast, many of our students run businesses or shops. This programme will help shift that narrative and instill professional skills that will benefit them in the long run and contribute to the university’s progress.”
In his remarks, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Sohel Hasan said, “Students come to university with big dreams, and they must cultivate focus, effort, and perseverance to realize those dreams. I hope this Self-Reliance Programme will teach them a lot. The university environment also plays a role in their personal growth.”
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Hossain Uddin Shekhar, in his keynote speech, stated, “By participating in the Self-Reliance Programme, students will gain fundamental insight into the operational aspects of the university. This initiative will enrich them both financially and experientially, and it will also help identify existing challenges within the university, which will ease administrative tasks.”
He added, “Since the beginning, the current administration has been working steadfastly to move the university toward a defined goal. We believe our students will play a vital role in achieving that vision.”
