The University of Dhaka recognises that a significant number of its students come from low-income and rural backgrounds and may face temporary food insecurity due to financial hardship, health emergencies, or accommodation-related challenges. Although the university does not operate a single centralised “food bank” system, a well-established institutional support framework is in place to address student food insecurity and hunger.

Residential halls play a central role in ensuring food security for students. University halls provide meals at highly subsidised rates, making regular and nutritious food accessible to economically disadvantaged students. In cases of financial distress, hall administrations—through Provosts and House Tutors—are empowered to take immediate measures, including deferred payment arrangements and emergency assistance, to ensure that no student is deprived of meals.

For non-residential and departmental students, food insecurity linked to financial constraints is addressed through a coordinated support mechanism involving departmental teachers, Heads of Departments, Faculty Deans, and central administrative offices. When a student reports an inability to meet essential living or food expenses, the university responds promptly through need-based support, fee adjustments, or referrals to relevant assistance schemes.

The University of Dhaka Medical Centre further contributes to reducing food insecurity by providing free medical services and essential medicines to students. This support mitigates the financial burden of healthcare costs, which can otherwise exacerbate hunger and food insecurity among low-income students.

In addition, the Department of Student Guidance and Counselling, along with designated counselling teachers in each department, provides regular psychosocial support. These services help identify students under economic and mental stress at an early stage and connect them with appropriate institutional support, including food-related assistance.

Through this decentralised but effective system involving residential halls, academic units, health services, and administrative offices, the University of Dhaka ensures that students facing food insecurity receive timely support, enabling them to continue their studies without disruption.