In response to ongoing human rights violations in various educational institutions across Bangladesh — including student abuse, ragging, and sexual harassment — the U.S.-based human rights organization Sochchar – Torture Watchdog Bangladesh organized a day-long national workshop titled “Empowering Campus Human Rights Defenders: National Workshop on Advocacy & Action.” The workshop was held at the Shaheed Mofazzal Haider Chowdhury Auditorium, Faculty of Arts, University of Dhaka, with the aim of promoting awareness and leadership in human rights at the university level.
A total of 45 members from the Sochchar Student Network, affiliated with Sochchar’s campus human rights clubs in 9 universities across Bangladesh, participated in the workshop.
The core objective of the event was to enhance awareness and capacity among youth to safeguard human rights within educational institutions. Discussions focused on campus-based initiatives for human rights protection, information collection and documentation, advocacy to prevent violence, torture, ragging, bullying, and sexual harassment, as well as providing legal aid, trauma management support to victims, and the role of research in promoting human rights.
The workshop featured participation from renowned human rights activists, legal experts, researchers, and representatives from international organizations.
Speaking at the event, Huma Khan, Senior Human Rights Adviser of the United Nations in Bangladesh, said:
“Young students are not merely the leaders of tomorrow — they are already agents of change. Today’s workshop reflects their courage and commitment. The United Nations firmly believes that human rights begin in the classroom, in the corridors of campuses, and in every voice that silently refuses to tolerate injustice. It is our duty to listen to these young human rights defenders, support them, and empower them.”
Dr. Muhammad Asadullah, Associate Professor at the University of Regina, Canada, highlighted three key points:
- The definition of violence must be broad — it encompasses not only physical abuse but also mental torture, bullying, and other layered forms of oppression.
- Victims’ confidentiality must be safeguarded — protecting their information, safety, and mental well-being should be a core principle of any organization.
- The healing process must be taken seriously — counseling, first responder training, and specialist intervention in complex cases are essential.
He added, “A university is not only a center of knowledge but also a hub for cultivating human values. The power to transform society lies within the students themselves.”
Rakibul Islam Khan, National Coordinator of Civic Youth Bangladesh, remarked:
“Where students cannot speak, democracy becomes fragile. Workshops like this nurture brave voices, which may become the foundation of broader social transformation.”
Tamim Dudayeb Khan, Research Officer at the Human Rights Support Society, stated:
“Research not only provides data but also lays the foundation for social justice. The analytical mindset and active participation shown by today’s attendees prove that they are on the path to becoming responsible human rights researchers and advocates.”
Barrister Shyikh Mahdi, Prosecutor at the International Crimes Tribunal and Director of the Legal Support Department of Sochchar, emphasized:
“Proper legal knowledge and strategic action are essential for claiming rights. Through this workshop, Sochchar is providing hands-on training to students on how to respond effectively to human rights violations on campus.”
Sumaiya Tasnim, Assistant Director of Sochchar’s Trauma Management and Support Department, highlighted the importance of trauma care:
“Behind most acts of violence lie unspoken psychological wounds. Today, we saw that psychological support, alongside physical protection, is an inseparable part of human rights defense.”
Sumaiya Tamanna, Project Manager at Sochchar and Research Fellow at Stamford University Bangladesh, provided guidance on research-based action planning and youth leadership development.
Throughout the day-long workshop, young human rights defenders were offered in-depth insights into their roles, rights, and responsibilities, along with clear strategies for action. The enthusiasm, thoughtful questions, and courageous perspectives of participants made the workshop lively and meaningful.
Compilation of news reports on the Program are given below –
Amar Desh – https://www.dailyamardesh.com/feature/campus/amdzhkebnf1nc
Sarabangla – https://sarabangla.net/news/post-1037028/
Dhaka Post – https://www.dhakapost.com/campus/383060
Swadesh Pratidin – https://www.swadeshpratidin.com/news/117643
.