June 11, 2024
The Asian Academy of Campus Ministry (AACM) is an initiative of the United Board to build the capacity of Asian university campuses for fostering spiritual development of their students and to better prepare campus ministers for their ever-evolving role that extends to student well-being and mental health. AACM 2024 was completed in early May and took 29 chaplains, campus ministers, academics and administrators from seven countries to three university campuses in Indonesia to immerse in a multi-faith learning experience. This is the second in a series of three profiles of the notable participants in AACM 2024.
In the bustling corridors of the Asian University for Women (AUW) in Bangladesh, one name resonates with empathy and steadfast dedication: Mr. Suman Chatterjee. Serving as Interim Dean of Students and Director of Student Recruitment and Marketing, Suman’s role is pivotal in shaping the lives of over 1,600 women from 17 different countries.
Suman's journey at AUW began in December 2021, amidst the challenging times of the COVID pandemic. At that time, the student body comprised 800 students, but with Suman at the helm, the university not only doubled its student intake but also enhanced its facilities to support this expansion. New dormitories sprung up, and the infrastructure evolved to create a nurturing environment for young women from diverse backgrounds.
One of the most significant chapters in Suman's tenure was the inclusion of 500 Afghan students, following the Taliban's ban on women's education. The task was not easy, involving rigorous testing of over 10,000 applicants and ensuring these young women had a safe haven to continue their education. Suman, along with his dedicated team, enhanced mental health services, hiring in-house psychologists as well as recruiting online Persian-speaking counselors to support the Afghan students.
But Suman's influence extends beyond logistical achievements. His passion for AUW’s mission and vision drives his daily efforts. The institution’s dedication to equity in education and empowering women from all socio-economic backgrounds inspires him profoundly. Seeing AUW graduates secure positions at top graduate schools like Oxford and Johns Hopkins, or work for esteemed organizations such as the World Bank and the UN, brings Suman immense pride and satisfaction.
Promoting a culture of care is at the heart of Suman's initiatives. Under his leadership, AUW strengthened its mental well-being services by organizing workshops and art therapy and meditation sessions. Sports clubs for volleyball, martial arts, and boxing were established to boost fitness and self-confidence among the students. Reading spaces and computer labs were created within dorms to ensure all students had access to the necessary resources.
Suman's dedication to interfaith harmony and cross-cultural understanding was further enriched by his participation in AACM 2024. This experience exposed him to the multifaceted approaches of universities in Indonesia, fostering in him a greater appreciation for interfaith dialogue. The training reinforced his commitment to promoting tolerance and respect among the diverse student body at AUW.
Reflecting on the AACM training, Suman acknowledges the invaluable insights gained from interacting with peers from various cultural backgrounds. These interactions highlighted the common challenges encountered by educational institutions and the innovative solutions implemented to promote whole person education and mental wellness. He said, “I eagerly anticipate gaining fresh insights and knowledge through diverse activities, revitalizing myself to enhance student life at AUW.”
One of Suman’s recent significant initiatives involved rescuing over 200 girls from the Gaza war and the Afghanistan war. Ensuring their well-being was a monumental task, requiring collaboration with government authorities and extensive support systems. Yet, Suman and his team persevered, providing these children with the care and education they deserve.
As Suman continues to navigate the challenges of his role, he remains steadfast in his mission to create a campus environment that values mental wellness, intercultural understanding, and student support. His innovative approach includes adopting practices like the burn-out test and organizing mental health first aid training for staff and student leaders.
Suman’s story is one of compassion, resilience, and transformative leadership. It is a testament to the power of empathy in touching lives and creating lasting change. His journey at AUW is not just a professional endeavor but a heartfelt mission to empower young women and shaping for them a brighter, more inclusive future.
Suman receives the AACM 2024 certificate from Prof. Dr. I Gusti Bagus Rai Utama, Rector of Dhyana Pura University