North South University (NSU) organised a two-day faculty workshop titled “Fostering Respectful Workplaces: Awareness of Sexual Harassment and Gender Equity” on 5 and 6 May 2026.

The initiative aimed to enhance awareness, strengthen understanding and promote a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace culture within the university community.

The workshop was organised by the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), NSU. The programme began with a welcome address by Director of IQAC Dr Halimur R Khan, who emphasised the importance of raising awareness regarding sexual harassment and reaffirmed NSU’s zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and discrimination.

He also noted that the workshop marked the beginning of an ongoing series of awareness and capacity-building initiatives aimed at fostering a respectful and inclusive academic and professional environment at the university.

The workshop series was inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, alongside Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Nasar U Ahmed and Treasurer Professor Abdur Rob Khan.

In his remarks, the vice-chancellor encouraged faculty members to actively participate in such initiatives to help strengthen a more supportive and respectful academic culture.

Professor Nasar U Ahmed highlighted the importance of sustained awareness and institutional commitment towards maintaining professional ethics and gender equity within the university.

Professor Abdur Rob Khan said, “A respectful workplace is not created through policies alone. It is created through everyday actions, through how we speak, how we behave, how we respond to others, and how we uphold the dignity of those around us.”

The workshop sessions were facilitated by Professor Dr Nova Ahmed from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NSU and Dr Abantee Harun, Assistant Professor at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh and social activist.

The sessions focused on awareness regarding sexual harassment, gender equity, professional conduct, respectful workplace behaviour and the importance of maintaining a safe and inclusive academic environment.

Through presentations, case discussions and interactive group activities, participants reflected on institutional responsibilities and practical strategies for fostering mutual respect and professionalism within the university community.

The workshop concluded on both days with crest-giving ceremonies honouring the facilitators.