As a member of the International Association of Universities (IAU), we are pleased to highlight American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) and their participation in the Responsible Futures International programme (RFI) for the 2024/25 cohort. This supported change programme and accreditation mark led by Students Organising for Sustainability (SOS-UK) and co-delivered by the IAU, focuses on embedding sustainability into student learning and the whole institution.
AIUB is the first university from Asia to join this programme, demonstrating its commitment to pioneering for sustainability and climate justice in higher education. With support from its Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), AIUB is working to integrate sustainability practices across its curriculum and institutional operations, in line with international best practices.
This partnership provides AIUB with the opportunity to drive transformative change, empowering students and institutions to co-create a sustainable future. As part of AIUB’s engagement with the RFI programme, we are pleased to highlight recent developments for sustainability organised by AIUB’s Social Welfare Club – Shamoy (ASC):
About AIUB’s Social Welfare Club – Shamoy (ASC): The AIUB Social Welfare Club – Shomoy (ASC), initiated in 2009, is all about getting students involved in helping others and making a positive difference. The club focuses on social issues like poverty, gender discrimination, and food insecurity, while also spreading awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Members volunteer in different activities such as flood relief, blood donation, and winter clothing drives. They also work with NGOs, support underprivileged children, and run fundraising campaigns. Anyone from AIUB’s four faculties can join the club, and there are currently 126 active members. ASC is guided by the Office of Student Affairs and is run by an Executive Committee. Looking ahead, the club hopes to grow its efforts, reach more people, and keep inspiring students to become future leaders through volunteerism and social work.
The AIUB Social Welfare Club has actively engaged in various community service initiatives. Here is an overview of their activities:
- Winter Clothing Drive 2024-25: The AIUB Social Welfare Club, Shomoy, carried out a winter clothing drive during the 2024-25 season to collect and distribute warm clothing to those in need.
- "Oder Eid, Amader Khushi" Initiative: On April 15, 2024, Shomoy organized this event to celebrate Eid with underprivileged children. The club collected funds to provide new clothes, food, and gifts, aiming to share the joy of Eid and bring smiles to the children's faces.
- Blood Donation Campaign: On March 6, 2024, Shomoy partnered with the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to organize a blood donation drive on campus. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and encourage students and staff to participate in this life-saving act.
- The IDEAS Challenge 2K23: Shomoy hosted this competition to foster innovative thinking among students. Participants were encouraged to present creative solutions to social issues, promoting a culture of problem-solving and social responsibility within the university community.
- World Environment Day 2022 Celebration: In collaboration with the Department of Public Health, Shomoy celebrated World Environment Day on June 8, 2022. The event included activities aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices among students and staff.
🔗 Learn more about the programme: Responsible Futures International