SDG 1 FAQ Page

1.3.3 - Does your university as a body provide support (e.g. food, housing, transportation, legal services) for students from low income families to enable them to complete university?

Yes, Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) is deeply committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of economic background, can continue and complete their education successfully. While the university does not operate a separate “food or housing scholarship” policy, it provides substantial institutional support and subsidies that significantly reduce the living, transport, and service costs for students—especially benefiting those from low-income families.

Food Support
NSTU operates subsidized canteens and cafeterias both in the academic zone and residential halls. Though not fully free, these facilities are supported through free utility services such as gas, electricity, water, and university-provided furniture and manpower, ensuring students can access meals at the lowest possible cost.

Housing Support
The university provides on-campus residential accommodation to nearly one-fourth of its total students at a highly subsidized rate. Each student residing in a university hall pays approximately USD 10 per year for shared room facilities, with electricity, water, gas, and maintenance costs fully borne by the university.

Transportation Support
NSTU operates a university transport system that offers safe and affordable travel between the campus and nearby towns. The transportation service is heavily subsidized, costing each student around USD 8 per year, ensuring accessible mobility for all students.

Legal and Administrative Support
The university also provides legal assistance and representation for students when required, especially where institutional support is needed.

1.3.5 - Does your university as a body have schemes to support poor students from low or lower-middle income countries (e.g. offering free education, grants)?

Yes. NSTU offers high-quality education at minimal cost, with total tuition and admission fees averaging around USD 400 for a four-year bachelor’s degree for foreign students from any country, making it highly affordable.

In addition, NSTU provides merit-based tuition waivers and need-based financial assistance to deserving students from low-income families. These facilities are also available to foreign students.

Through these initiatives, NSTU expands access to higher education for students from low- and lower-middle-income countries and ensures that financial hardship does not become a barrier.

1.4.2 - Does your university as a body provide financial assistance to the local community assisting the start-up of financially and socially sustainable businesses?

Yes, NSTU actively supports the local community in establishing financially and socially sustainable businesses. The university provides land leasing and cultivation opportunities to local entrepreneurs and start-ups at subsidized rates or nominal prices.

NSTU also provides shop spaces within university premises at minimal rent, helping businesses sell food, groceries, and essential goods. These initiatives promote sustainable local economic development and community welfare.