Stamford University Bangladesh, a private university in the country, has adopted a policy of non-cooperation with tobacco companies in accordance with Article 5.3 of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance (BATA), WBB Trust and Stamford Anti-Drug Forum jointly implemented a programme under the initiative of Stamford University on Wednesday.
In the programme, Stamford University authorities signed the ‘Code of Conduct’ in support of Article 5.3 of FCTC.
Professor Dr Ahmed Kamruzzaman Majumdar, chairman of Environmental Science department of Stamford University Bangladesh; chaired the event while Professor Dr. Moniruzzaman, Vice-Chancellor of the university; was present as the chief guest. Aminul Islam Bakul of BATA; Fahmida Islam, Focal Point of international organisation STOP; and Syeda Anonna Rahman, head of program at WBB Trust; spoke on the occasion. Professor Al Mamun of Pharmacy department at Stamford University; and Azim Khan from WBB Trust; were also present at the event.
Samiul Hasan Sajib, project officer of WBB Trust; presented the keynote at the event moderated by Nusrat Jahan Thumpa, a member of Stamford Anti-Drug Forum.
In his keynote, Samiul Hasan Sajib discussed how the companies are creating obstacles to tobacco control policymaking and what steps can be taken for way-out.
In accordance with Article 5.3 of FCTC, the Stamford University will take the following steps:
• Stopping campaigning in the name of socio-cultural events and social responsibility programmes of tobacco companies.
• Providing training, raising awareness to employees at all levels to make them aware of Article 5.3 of the FCTC.
• Refraining from receiving, giving and participating in any cooperation directly or indirectly from the tobacco companies or any person and organisation related to the tobacco companies.
• A completely smoke-free environment will be maintained in all offices of Stamford University.
• Encouraging other organisations to implement Article 5.3 of the FCTC as well as providing technical support.
• Refraining from appointing any person who directly or indirectly benefited from the tobacco companies.
