Progress Report on SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET)
SDG 16 promotes peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, focusing on reducing violence, ensuring equal access to justice, and building strong institutions. Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology (RUET) supports this goal through the development of accountable governance structures, mandatory ethical education, and formal mechanisms for conflict resolution, aligning with its role in building future leaders and infrastructure experts.
Key Initiatives
- Mandatory Professional Ethics and Governance in Curriculum:
- All engineering students are educated on principles of integrity, governance, and accountability.
- Departments like Civil Engineering (CE) and Mechanical Engineering (ME) integrate Professional Ethics as a compulsory course, emphasizing anti-corruption and adherence to codes of conduct in public works.
- The Urban and Regional Planning (URP) Department offers modules on Transparent Governance and Policy-Making, highlighting public sector accountability and rule of law in infrastructure projects.
- Formal Grievance Redressal and Access to Justice:
- RUET maintains a formal Grievance Redressal Mechanism (GRM) for students and staff to report conflicts, administrative irregularities, or harassment without fear of reprisal.
- Dedicated Anti-Ragging and Anti-Sexual Harassment Committees ensure safe and inclusive environments, with clear protocols for investigation and resolution.
- Legal Literacy Workshops and orientations are organized in collaboration with external legal bodies to educate students and staff about their rights and institutional justice processes.
- Institutional Transparency and Accountability:
- Implementation of E-Tendering and Transparent Procurement Policies for large-scale projects ensures accountability and minimizes corruption.
- Regular publication of the university's Annual Report and Audited Financial Statements promotes institutional transparency.
- Administrative decisions regarding policy, admissions, and examinations are governed by the RUET Act and Statutes, ensuring strong institutional rules.
- Promotion of Peaceful Campus Culture:
- Student social service clubs host Inter-Faith Dialogue Sessions and Peace Seminars to promote mutual respect, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
- The university enforces a strict Code of Conduct for all students and dormitory residents, with immediate disciplinary action against acts of violence, bullying, or discrimination.