The National University (NU) is set to establish a Career and Wellbeing Centre (CWC) to support the physical and mental health of its nearly 40 lakh students, develop their skills and improve their employment prospects.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) to this end was signed between the National University and Bioted at the university’s city office in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, on Friday (31 October).

NU Acting Director of Public Relations Taiyeba Tasnim Siraj confirmed the development in a press release on Saturday.

Under the agreement, the centre will use the university’s infrastructure and network of affiliated colleges to provide students with thalassemia screening, confidential genetic counselling, mental health services and practical, market-oriented training.

The university said all information collected through healthcare services and thalassemia screening would be kept strictly confidential. Students with complex medical conditions would also be advised to consult specialist physicians.

Alongside their academic studies, students will receive skills training in four areas: digital services, business and finance, English and business communication, and healthcare and caregiving services.

The centre will also help students prepare professional CVs, develop interview skills, secure internships and connect directly with potential employers.

Students will have opportunities to gain practical experience by working on institutional projects before completing their academic programmes.

A dedicated support desk will also be introduced for female graduates to facilitate their employment and help ensure safe working environments.

NU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ASM Amanullah signed the MoU on behalf of the university, while Bioted Executive Director Dr Mohammad Shaugatul Islam signed on behalf of the organisation.

NU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Treasurer Professor Dr Md Nazmul Hossain, Registrar Molla Mahfuz Al-Hossain, Director of the International Affairs Office Raj Bin Kasem and GenX Health Managing Director Dr Munia Amin, among others, attended the signing ceremony.