Policy Against Forced Labor, Modern Slavery,

Human Trafficking and Child Labor

1. Introduction

Varendra University is fully committed to fair and ethical employment practices. We strictly prohibit all forms of forced labor, modern slavery, human trafficking, and child labor. This policy follows both national and international labor laws to make sure our workplace is safe, fair, and transparent for everyone.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

· All faculty, administrative, and support staff.

· All contractors, vendors, and third-party service providers working with the university.

· Any recruitment or hiring process carried out by the university.

3. Policy Statement

3.1 No Forced Labor or Modern Slavery

· No one at Varendra University can be forced to work through threats, pressure, or exploitation.

· All employment must be based on free and informed choice.

· Employees have the right to resign voluntarily with proper notice.

3.2 Protection Against Human Trafficking

· The university will not allow or support human trafficking in any form.

· All hiring must be transparent and honest, without misleading or deceptive practices.

· All contractors and vendors must follow anti-human trafficking laws as part of their agreement with the university.

3.3 Ban on Child Labor

· The university follows the Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006, which does not allow hiring anyone under 14 years old.

· No one below the legal working age shall be hired, directly or indirectly.

· Any student internship or training will be for educational purposes only, not for cheap or exploitative labor.

3.4 Fair Employment and Working Conditions

· All employees, including support staff, must receive fair pay, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions.

· No employee should be forced to work overtime beyond legal limits.

· Every employee must receive a written contract that clearly explains their job, pay, and rights.

4. Reporting and Compliance

· Any employee, student, or third party can report violations of this policy to the Human Resources Department, Ethics Committee, or Disciplinary Committee.

· All reports will be handled confidentially, and no one will face retaliation for reporting a concern.

· Any violation of this policy may lead to disciplinary action, including termination of employment or cancellation of contracts.

5. Implementation and Monitoring

· The university will conduct regular checks and audits to ensure this policy is followed.

· Staff involved in recruitment or purchasing will receive training on ethical labor practices.

· All third-party suppliers and contractors must sign an agreement confirming their compliance with labor laws.

6. Compliance with National and International Standards

This policy follows:

· Bangladesh Labour Act, 2006

· United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights

· International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions on Forced and Child Labor

· United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights