STUDENT SUPPORT CENTRE (SSC)

GUIDELINE

Medical education is one of the most rigorous and demanding fields of study, requiring students to balance academic, personal, and professional development under intense pressure.  In 1988, the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) published the Edinburgh Declaration, which provides a future direction for medical education that continues to be relevant today. It is now recognized that not only is the quality of educational content important in medical education, but the environment in which education takes place and the overall educational experience are also crucial.
 
Surveys across several countries reveal that many students report experiencing high levels of academic performance anxiety, higher academic expectations and competition leading to increased stress levels. Alarmingly, many students conceal their personal distress due to stigma.  Many students are hesitant to avail mental health care due to concerns about confidentiality and limited access to services.  To provide the best care to patient, future physicians must be themselves in a good state of health.  Authorities are committed to promoting the mental health and well-being of all students and to help them reach their full potential, both academically and personally.
 
Medical colleges of Bangladesh are becoming more diverse, with students from different backgrounds and cultures. Mental health issues among medical students of Bangladesh are on the rise, making mental health support services crucial in the present context. Medical colleges need to foster an inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds feel welcome and supported. There should be a supportive learning environment with a proactive approach addressing physical, mental, social, intellectual, and financial well-being, where seeking help is actively encouraged. To address well-being of students a holistic, systems-based approach is needed.
 
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by medical students, the establishment of a Student
Support Centre (SSC) in Popular Medical College is essential. These centers play a pivotal role in ensuring that students receive the necessary support to excel academically, maintain their physical and mental well-being, and prepare for future professional responsibilities. By providing a wide range of services and resources, Popular Medical College will empower struggling students to overcome challenges, achieve academic goals, and develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Guiding Principles:
1.  Inclusivity: Provide support to all students regardless of background.
2.  Confidentiality: Protect the privacy of students accessing SSC services.
3.  Holistic approach: Address academic, mental, and social needs.
4.  Collaboration: Work with internal and external stakeholders

Faculty members should be supportive enough to identify and guide learners towards any services they require and to refer them to appropriate resources. Faculty members need to be trained to recognize signs of distress in students and to refer them to the SSC for assistance.   A peer support system should be encouraged that will create safe spaces to provide academic as well as emotional support for students.
 
The SSC is a resource dedicated to supporting our medical students in their journey to become competent and compassionate healthcare professionals. Students are encouraged to utilize the range of services offered, whether they need academic guidance, mental health support, or career advice. By fostering an environment that is responsive to the remedial, psychological, and welfare needs of students, the SSC ensures that the students can overcome challenges, achieve their academic goals, and develop the skills and resilience required for their future roles in healthcare.
 
The SSC is not just a facility but a comprehensive system designed to address the diverse needs of students. By providing supports, the SSC aims to create a nurturing environment where students can thrive both personally and professionally.  The SSC will provide much-needed assistance to deserving students and contribute to their academic success and overall well-being.
 
In response to these issues, the guideline for the SSC in Popular Medical College will outline measures to enhance an environment that is cordially responsive to the remedial, psychological and welfare needs of the medical students.  This guideline will provide services and implementation strategies of SSC in Popular Medical College.   This initiative aligns with national and global standards, including the WHO.
 
Policy makers should priorities the well-being of medical students and take responsibility  for allocating  resources. Institutions should organize faculty development program so that faculty members will be able to conceptualize the significance of their roles in nurturing well-being of the students.

Aims of Student Support Centre (SSC)

Academic Support
 
  • Help students overcome learning difficulties
  • Provide mentoring, tutoring, and study skills guidance
  • Support students at risk of poor academic performance
Mental Health & Well-Being
 
  • Offer psychological counseling and stress-management support
  • Address anxiety, depression, burnout, and exam stress
  • Promote emotional resilience and work–life balance
Personal & Social Support
 
  • Assist students with personal, family, or social challenges
  • Create a safe, confidential space for sharing concerns
  • Support students from diverse or vulnerable backgrounds
Professional Development
 
  • Guide students on professionalism, ethics, and communication skills
  • Provide career guidance and role modeling
  • Help students adapt to the responsibilities of becoming a doctor
Prevention & Early Intervention
 
  • Identify problems early before they affect performance or health
  • Reduce dropouts, failures, and disciplinary issues
Student Welfare & Advocacy
 
  • Act as a link between students and administration
  • Ensure student concerns are heard and addressed fairly

Mission

The mission of the Student Support Center is to empower students to achieve academic success, personal growth, and overall well-being by providing accessible, inclusive, and comprehensive support services. The center is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment that addresses academic, emotional, social, and developmental needs, promotes equity and inclusion, and equips students with the skills, resources, and confidence needed to thrive throughout their educational journey and beyond.

Different Committees of the Student Support Centre (SSC)

Members of Core Committee

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Khandaker Abu Rayhan, Principal
Member :
Prof. AMSM Sharfuzzaman, Hospital Director
Prof. Shameema Begum, Phase-I Co-ordinator / Hostel Super (Girls)
Prof. Kh. A. Karim, Phase-II Co-ordinator
Prof. Enamul Kabir, Phase-III Co-ordinator
Prof. Mujibur Rahman, Phase-IV Co-ordinator
NaProf. Mushtaque Ahmedme, Hostel Super (Boys)
Member Secretary :
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Vice-Principal
Focal Person :
Dr. Md. Rashed Bhuiyan, Lecturer, Dept. of Physiology

Student Representatives

Phase-I
Md. Rajiuddin Ahmmed Rumi, Roll: 56 | PM-14
Nowshin Tabassum Rifa, Roll: 01 | PM-14
Phase-II
Arib Rahman Sami, Roll: 40 | PM-13
Fahima Khanam, Roll: 14 | PM-13
Phase-III
Tasnim Shehabeen Mahabub, Roll: 67 | PM-12
Kamrul Hassan, Roll: 31 | PM-12
Phase-IV
Istiak Sakif, Roll: 82 | PM-11
Tanha Tabassum, Roll: 30 | PM-11

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Select members for all SSC committees and reorganize them as needed.
  • Supervise and guide committees in organizing seminars, workshops, and campaigns.
  • Ensure confidentiality of student complaints and related issues.
  • Arrange quarterly meetings and emergency meetings when required.
  • Evaluate committee activities using feedback from students and teachers.
  • Analyze reports and take proactive measures to prevent future issues.

NB: Student representatives, international students, intern doctors and alumni representatives will work for one academic year.

Physical and Mental Wellbeing Ensuring Committe

A Physical and mental wellbeing committee can significantly enhance the overall well-being of students of medical colleges. The committee will identify the students who need the help regarding any kind of physical or mental supports. 
 

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Mujibur Rahman, Head of the Department of Medicine  
Member : 
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Head of the Department of Surgery
Prof. Shamsun Nahar Lucky, Head of the Department of Obs. & Gynae.
Prof. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, Head of the Department of Psychiatry
Prof. Mushtaque Ahmed, Hostel Super (Boys)
Prof. Shameema Begum, Hostel Super (Girls)
Member Secretary :
Dr. Tania Ahmed, Assistant Prof. Dept. of Anatomy.
Intern doctors (1 male & 1 female) : 
Dr. Redwan Ahmed (Intern)
Dr. Mastura Mahadia Ahona (Intern)

Student Representatives

Phase-I
Mohammed Tasnimul Tahmid,Roll: 82, PM-14
Fatema Mehzabin,Roll: 54, PM-14
Phase-II
Md.Nafizul Islam Nabik,Roll: 33, PM-13
Tasninn Shaikh,Roll: 94, PM-13
Phase-III
Labiba Noor,Roll: 10, PM-12
Imran Ahmed Zahin, Roll: 63, PM-12
Phase-IV
Md. Mahir Rashid, Roll: 62, PM-11
Nusrat Jahan Munia, Roll: 07, PM-11

Roles and Responsibilities

  1. One baseline survey will be conducted one month after MBBS admission, followed by one regular survey once in a year. A semi structured questionnaire will be used to identify students' physical and mental health needs (Appendix I). By using the survey report, the committee will pinpoint the areas of concern and prioritize the initiatives and do the needful.
  2. May arrange free health check-up (pulse, blood pressure, urine R/M/E, CBC, Dope test, etc.)for the medical students once in a year. Intern doctors will play a crucial role in this program.
  3. The committee will organize workshops and seminars to raise awareness about physical health issues, such as nutrition and exercise. The World Health Day (7thApril) or any other recognized day which is convenient for the college authority can be used for organizing these events. The committee will raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce stigma.
  4. The world mental health day (10thOctober) can be used for the campaign related with mental health issues. Through this committee, stress management workshops  and  seminars  can be arranged to teach effective coping strategies for academic and personal stress.
  5. Arrange an organized program for the counselling of the medical students in collaboration
  6. with the Department of Psychiatry. Confidential counselling services will be provided to student when needed.
  7. Provide online videos on physical exercise, health tips and other relevant topics through the e-library. 
 
Methods of the counselling services:
1.  Supportive one to one or group counselling sessions weekly (the Psychiatry Department of
      each medical college will schedule the day and  time according to their own feasibility).
2. Structured psychotherapeutic approach (CBT, anger management therapy, assertiveness
     training, etc.)
3.  Necessary referrals if needed.  Some cases, such as drug addiction, may require extended
     services. In such special cases, the committee will refer the student for the specialized  
     treatment.
Issues to be addressed in these counselling sessions:
1.  Self-esteem and personal growth
2.  Depression and suicidal tendencies
3.  Adjustment problems
4.  Stress related problems
5.  Substances abuse and other addictions
6.  Relationship and personal issues
7.  Others
 

Grievance Redressal Committee

Establishing a grievance redressal committee under the SSC in a medical college is a crucial step in fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.  It provides a formal channel for students to voice their concerns and grievances and ensures prompt and fair resolution of issues. It promotes a culture of open communication and transparency to prevent and address potential conflicts and harassment. All the academic matters (coursework, exams, faculty conduct, etc.), non-academic matters (hostel facilities, infrastructure, administrative issues, coping skills, etc.) and complaints related to harassment and discrimination must be addressed properly.  Multiple channels for submitting complaints need to be provided, such as in-person through written application and online through email, WhatsApp etc. A transparent complaint box should be placed in SSC/student section of the medical college. Grievances should be received, acknowledged, and addressed. By following the guideline, a robust and effective grievance redressal committee can be established that will contribute to a positive and supportive learning environment in medical colleges.
 

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Vice principal,
Member : 
Prof. Kh. A. Karim, Professor, Dept. of Forensic Medicine
Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mahbub-Ul- Alam, Professor, Dept. of Com. Medicine
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Raquib, Professor, Dept. of ENT
Dr. Mominul Haque, Lecturer, Dept. of Anatomy
Dr. Emon Ahmed Rubal, Lecturer, Dept. of Community Medicine
Prof. Mushtaque Ahmed, Hostel Super (Boys)
Prof. Shameema Begum, Hostel Super (Girls)
Member Secretary :
Dr. Jannatut Tasnim, Assistant professor, Dept. of Biochemistry

Student Representatives

Phase-I
Tawheeduzzaman Tawheed, Roll: 61, PM-14
Ashfia Azrin, Roll: 37, PM-14
Phase-II
Md. Obydul Hoque Prince, Roll: 29, PM-13
Jannatul Ferdous Ratna, Roll: 67, PM-13
Phase-III
Tasnua Seherin, Roll: 95, PM-12
Arit Nandi, Roll: 103, PM-12
Phase-IV
Maksub Sahil ibne zahir , Roll: 59, PM-11
Amena Anjum Labonnya, Roll: 83, PM-11
* The committee can co-opt new members if required during the academic year.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Conduct impartial investigations, facilitate mediation and reconciliation between parties, and recommend appropriate actions to resolve issues. Committee will carry out thorough and unbiased investigations, interview relevant parties, gather evidence and prepare documentation of the entire process.
  • Set up a clear timeline for investigation and resolution, aiming for completion within 14 working days. In special situations, the committee may extend the timeframe. Concerned will be updated regularly on the progress of investigation process.
  • Recommend appropriate actions, such as counselling, disciplinary measures, or policy changes. Implement the recommended actions, monitor the resolution process, ensure student satisfaction, and provide feedback on the outcome.
  • Display activities related to the grievance redressal committee in prominent locations within the medical college (e.g., outside lecture halls, galleries, conference rooms, staircases, corridors, administrative office).
  • Conduct seminars on grievance handling and conflict resolution for teachers.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding submitted complaints and investigation process.

NB: Student representatives, international students, intern doctors and alumni representatives will work for one academic year.

Academic Remedial Coaching and Career Counselling Committee

Academic support should be available for medical students and strategies should exist to support special needs and circumstances. Academic advising and remedial coaching can significantly enhance the performances of the struggling students in a medical college. A remedial coaching program need to be organized where both the teachers and the peer facilitate students, by offering guidance, support, and motivation.
By establishing a well-structured career counselling cell, a medical college can significantly enhance its student’s career prospects and help them to achieve their full potential. Career counselling should be provided including opportunities to explore various specialty options. By implementing these strategies, a career counselling cell can empower students to make informed career decisions, develop essential skills, and successfully transition into the workforce.
 

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Vice principal
Member : 
Dr. Tahmina Akter, Asstt. Prof., Dept. of Anatomy
Dr. Razia Sultana, Assoc. Prof., Dept. of Physiology
Dr. Taznuva Anwar, Assoc. Prof., Dept. of Biochemistry
Dr. Sarwat Ara Taslim Shukty, Asstt. Prof., Dept.  Forensic Medicine
Dr. Mohammad Mahbubul Hoque Assoc. Prof., Dept.  Pharmacology
Dr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Asstt. Prof., Dept. Microbiology
Dr. Mahmuda Ansari, Assoc. Prof., Dept.  Community Medicine
Dr. Tasmina Chowdhury, Asstt. Prof., Dept.  Medicine
Dr. Tahiyat Farhana, Asstt. Prof., Dept. Surgery
Dr. Shain Fariya Shetu, Asstt. Prof., Dept. Gynae & Obst
Member Secretary :
Dr. Mohammad Shafaul Alam, Asstt. Prof., Dept.  Pathology

Student Representatives

Phase-I
Md. Shakibul Hasan, Roll: 14, PM-14
Nujhat Nawal, Roll: 12, PM-14
Phase-II
Mohammad Sanower Rahman, Roll: 58, PM-13
Farzana Yesmin Mukti, Roll: 31, PM-13
Phase-III
Ashraful Islam, Roll: 105, PM-12
Ashaniath Oishe, Roll: 01, PM-12
Phase-IV
Mahin Musfiq, Roll: 02, PM-11
Mehrukh Turjana, Roll: 17, PM-11
Two Alumni
Dr. Imran Sikder, PM-4
Dr. Tasnim Tarannum, PM-1
* The committee can co-opt new members if required during the academic year.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Regarding academic remedial coaching:
  • Provide academic guidance & support to the struggling students
  • Identify students who require remedial coaching
  • Organize and conduct remedial classes (in person/online) by teachers or peers. In case of peer coaching, the peer coach will get a certificate provided by the core committee.
  • Monitor the academic progress of the students attending remedial classes.
  • Facilitate peer mentoring and tutoring programs

Regarding career counselling

  • Give comprehensive career guidance & counselling service by assisting students in making informed decisions about their future careers that also facilitate the development of essential soft skills.
  • Provide information regarding higher studies & fellowship program (both home & abroad)
  • Arrange career counselling session for the newly admitted students
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive career counselling program every year mainly for the 5th year students.
  • Collect information from experienced alumni
  • Assist students in setting realistic & achievable goals
  • Utilize social media and digital platforms to promote the cell's activities
  • Organize seminars on different career options & emerging trends
  • Organize workshops on soft skills like communication, teamwork, leadership and time management

NB: Student representatives, international students, intern doctors and alumni representatives will work for one academic year.

Financial Support Providing Committe

Establishing a Financial support providing committee under the SSC in a medical college is an excellent initiative to assist students facing financial difficulties. This committee will provide financial aid to deserving students.  A specific bank account will be created for this purpose. This bank account will be maintained by the signatures of chairperson and member secretary.
 
 

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Vice principal, PMC
 
Member : 
Dr. Mustafizur Rahman, Assoc. Prof., Dept. of Pathology
Dr. Md. Ashraful Azim, Assoc. Prof., Dept. of Anatomy
Member Secretary :
Dr. Muhammad Mahbubul Haque, Assoc. Prof. of Pharmacology

Student Representatives

1 male & 1 female from each phase :
Abrar Mahmud Siam, Roll: 31, PM-14
Fariha Anjum Nazibah, Roll: 55, PM-14
Fawad Uzair, Roll: 78, PM-13
Jeba Tahsin Tushi, Roll: 08, PM-13
Md. Abdur Rafi Beg, Roll: 03, PM-12
Sumaiya Jannat Jummi, Roll: 56, PM-12
Md. Abidur Rahman, Roll: 60, PM-11
Noushin Moushtary Rownak, Roll: 87, PM-11
Accountant
Md. Hasinur Rahman, PMC
* The committee can co-opt new members if required during the academic year.

Roles and Responsibilities

Scope of financial support:
  1. Hostel fees
  2. Books and stationery
  3. Medical expenses
  4. Emergency needs
 
Roles and responsibilities of the Financial support providing committee:
  1. Prepare a simple and accessible application form focusing on specific eligibility criteria.    Required supporting documents related to parent (income, fee receipts, medical reports etc.)      should be submitted for the review of the committee.
  2. Ensure a fair evaluation process regarding the selection of the beneficiaries. Regular students will be prioritized.
  3. Establish a transparent and accountable system for disbursing  funds and ensure timely     disbursement to meet urgent needs. The beneficiaries will receive the fund through cheque.
  4. Maintain accurate records of financial aid provided
  5. Monitor the impact of financial aid on students' academic performance and well-being.
  6. Conduct a yearly review in the month of June regarding the disbursement and all other related issues.
 
 
Identify potential sources for financial aids:
  1. Alumni donations
  2. Corporate sponsorships
  3. Grants from government and non-government organizations
  4.  Fundraising events
  5. Philanthropic organizations

NB: Student representatives, international students, intern doctors and alumni representatives will work for one academic year.

International Student Welfare Committee

Establishing an International student welfare committee within the SSC is a valuable initiative that can significantly enhance the experience of international students. This committee can serve as a bridge between international students and the institution, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting cultural exchange. This committee will provide support and guidance to international students, facilitate cultural integration and address the unique needs and challenges.  By establishing an International student welfare committee, the SSC can play a vital role in creating a supportive and enriching environment for international students, contributing to their academic success and overall well-being.
 

Teacher Representatives

Chairperson :
Prof. Mahamud Riyad, Vice principal, PMC
Member
Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mahmud, Curator, Dept. of  Anatomy
Dr. Shahib Majumder, Lecturer, Dept. of Physiology
Dr. Tareq Aziz , Lecturer, Dept. of Biochemistry
Dr. Md. Ahsanul Kabir, Lecturer, Dept. of Community Medicine
Dr. Raizul Amin, Lecturer, Dept. of Pharmacology
Dr. Faisal Zainal Abedin, Lecturer, Dept. of Microbiology
Dr. Navid Nooren, Lecturer, Dept. of Pathology
Dr. Swapnil K. Biswas, Lecturer, Dept. of Forensic Medicine
Dr. Najeeb Mahiyuddin, Registrar, Dept. of Medicine
Dr. Sumanta Kundu, Registrar, Dept. of Surgery
Dr. Momta Chowdhuruy, Registrar, Dept. of Gynae & Obst
Prof. Mushtaque Ahmed, Hostel Super (Boys)
Prof. Shameema Begum, Hostel Super (Girls)

Student Representatives

1 male & 1 female students from final phase):
Asad Adeeb, Roll: 101, PM-11
Shaikh Naziya Qaiser Azad, Roll: 99, PM-11
* The committee can co-opt new members if required during the academic year.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Address the unique needs and challenges of international students.
  • Organize separate orientation programs in collaboration with college authority, as international students are often admitted after the main orientation program.
  • Provide academic counselling, tutoring, and language support if needed specially at the 1st year entry period.
  • Plan events and activities that promote cultural exchange, social  interaction, and  community building.
  • Pair international students with domestic students to facilitate cultural exchange & provide support.
  • Connect international students with mentors (senior international students) who can provide guidance and support

NB: Student representatives, international students, intern doctors and alumni representatives will work for one academic year.