Policy on Academic Freedom in Research and Teaching

1. Purpose This policy affirms Noakhali Science and Technology University’s (NSTU) commitment to upholding academic freedom as a core value of higher education and research. It ensures that all faculty members, researchers, and students can pursue knowledge, inquiry, and innovation without undue restriction, in alignment with national laws and ethical standards. 2. Scope This policy applies to all members of the university community engaged in teaching, research, and academic dissemination, including full-time and part-time faculty, researchers, and postgraduate students. 3. Principles of Academic Freedom NSTU recognizes and supports the following principles of academic freedom:  3.1 Freedom of Inquiry and Research: Academic staff and researchers have the right to determine their areas of study, select appropriate methodologies, and publish their findings freely, subject to ethical review and institutional regulations.  3.2 Freedom in Teaching: Faculty members have the right to present their subject matter truthfully and critically within the scope of their academic discipline, fostering open discussion and independent thinking among students.  3.3 Freedom of Expression and Dissemination: Members of the academic community may speak, write, and publish—individually or collectively—on matters within their field of expertise, both within and outside the university, provided they maintain professional integrity and respect for others’ rights.  3.4 Protection from Interference: The university ensures that no faculty member or researcher shall suffer disadvantage, discrimination, or censorship for exercising academic freedom responsibly within institutional and national ethical frameworks.  3.5 Public Engagement: NSTU encourages its scholars to contribute to public dialogue & policymaking in their areas of expertise, thereby promoting informed social & scientific advancement. 4. Responsibilities and Ethical Conduct Academic freedom is accompanied by responsibilities to uphold scholarly integrity, respect intellectual diversity, and comply with national laws and university policies on ethics, research integrity, and non-discrimination. 5. Governance and Implementation The implementation of this policy shall be overseen by the Research Cell and monitored by relevant institutional committees, including the ethics committees. Any concerns related to academic freedom will be addressed through transparent and fair institutional mechanisms. 6. Review and Amendment The first two years of this policy (2024–2026) are regarded as a proposed and adaptive phase, during which amendments may be made based on practical experience and campus awareness needs. The final version is expected to be adopted in 2026, following institutional review and stakeholder consultation. Until then, this proposed version remains fully applicable and enforceable under the existing acts and regulations.