BD Govt. Issues Strict Guidelines to Ensure Tobacco-Free and Healthy Environment in Educational Institutions

The government has issued strict directives to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and ensure a tobacco-free environment across all educational institutions and related offices in the country.

The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) has circulated the guidelines to all public and private educational institutions, education offices, and relevant authorities nationwide. The information was confirmed on Monday by Professor Dr. Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel, Director (Secondary) of DSHE.

Under the new directives, the sale, use, and promotion of tobacco products have been completely banned within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions. The order, signed by the Director (Secondary), instructs institutions to implement the Ministry of Health’s “Joint Declaration” on tobacco control and non-communicable disease prevention.

All educational institutions and offices have been directed to declare themselves “tobacco-free” zones and display appropriate signage accordingly. In line with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), all forms of tobacco industry sponsorship and promotional activities are strictly prohibited within educational institutions.

To ensure students’ nutrition, the guidelines call for limiting the marketing of unhealthy food and high-sugar beverages on campuses. Instead, institutions are encouraged to establish “healthy canteens” offering nutritious alternatives. Food supplied by canteens or vendors must be low in salt and sugar and free from trans fats. Additionally, government meetings are now instructed to serve fresh fruits, nuts, and healthy snacks instead of conventional catering items.

The directives also emphasize improving physical fitness among students by ensuring at least 30 minutes of moderate to high-intensity physical activity daily. Institutions without playgrounds have been advised to arrange indoor physical activities. Initiatives such as swimming lessons for children and hourly desk-based stretching exercises for staff have also been recommended.

Furthermore, the guidelines require government offices and educational institutions to ensure women-, child-, disability-, and elderly-friendly infrastructure, including ramps and accessible stairways. Awareness campaigns are encouraged to promote healthy lifestyles, such as using stairs instead of elevators, cycling, and avoiding prolonged sitting.

DSHE stated that the directives must be implemented immediately, and each institution is required to submit regular implementation reports to the Special Education Wing of the Directorate.

Commenting on the initiative, Director (Secondary) Professor Dr. Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel said the measures would significantly reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases among the younger generation and contribute to building a healthier and more resilient nation.