Student Welfare Support Program
Project Summary:
This program is designed to support the holistic development of students, particularly those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. It aims to address academic, emotional, and social challenges through targeted interventions that foster inclusion, resilience, and a sense of belonging. By collaborating with schools, community leaders, and families, the project empowers students to thrive in their educational journey.
Objectives:
* Enhance academic performance through tutoring and study support.
* Promote emotional wellbeing via counselling, mentorship, and peer support.
* Strengthen social integration and cross-cultural understanding.
* Build strong school-community-family connections to support student development.
Target Group:
Primary and secondary school students from CALD, refugee, or international backgrounds, including newly arrived students and those facing socio-economic barriers.
Key Activities:
* After-school homework clubs and tutoring sessions.
* Mental health and emotional resilience workshops.
* Peer mentoring and leadership development programs.
* Family engagement forums and school liaison support.
Expected Outcomes:
* Improved academic outcomes and school engagement.
* Reduced stress, isolation, and mental health risks among students.
* Stronger peer relationships and cultural awareness in schools.
* Enhanced family involvement and community support networks.
The Why – A Gap in Our Community
The Need: Why Are We Doing This?
- Melbourne is a top destination for students from Bangladesh.
- New students face significant challenges: culture shock, homesickness, academic pressure, financial strain.
- A need for a trusted, community-based support system.
- Difficulty navigating complex Australian systems (legal, financial, educational)
Students are our future. Their wellbeing is our responsibility.
Alignment with BACV’s Purpose
The Need: A Program Aligned with Our Constitution
- The BACV constitution aims to promote cultural, intellectual and social learning.
- New students, especially from the Bengali-speaking community, need support to integrate academically and socially.
- This program directly addresses the constitutional mandate to nurture our children’s sense of identity and strengthen ties to our heritage.
- It positions BACV as a vital hub for community wellbeing and education, not just art.
Our Vision & Mission
- Vision: To create a trusted and supportive ecosystem where Bengali-speaking students and the broader community can thrive and maintain strong cultural ties.
- Mission: To empower CALD students by providing targeted educational, social, and emotional support, while offering timely and accurate information, fostering a supportive network, and facilitating connections to professional services.
Broad Scope of Work
Scope of the New Program: What We Will Do
Student Support: Pre-arrival guidance, settlement help, wellbeing initiatives.
Community Engagement: Forums and events to build a strong, cohesive network.
Wellbeing & Cultural Connection: Workshops and mentorship to support identity and mental health.
Student Support in Detail
Scope of the New Program: What We Will Do
Student Support: Pre-arrival guidance, settlement help, wellbeing initiatives.
Community Engagement: Forums and events to build a strong, cohesive network.
Wellbeing & Cultural Connection: Workshops and mentorship to support identity and mental health.
Pre-Arrival and Settlement:
- To be a primary point of contact for prospective students in Bangladesh.
- To offer a ‘buddy system’ or mentor program to connect new students with established community members.
- To provide practical, on-the-ground information about Melbourne life, such as finding accommodation, public transport, and banking.
Wellbeing and Integration:
- To create a supportive network to help students overcome initial struggles like homesickness, cultural shock, and reduce isolation.
- To be a safe space where students can share their challenges and seek non-judgmental support
- To curate and collate accurate, up-to-date information on Australian laws, particularly those relevant to students (e.g., tenancy rights, employment rights)
The Roadmap
Strategic Implementation: Our Plan
Phase 1 (Initial 3 Months):
- Form a core program committee
- Establish a volunteer recruitment drive
- Create a basic online presence – extending BACB website and social network platform
- and develop a content strategy.
- A separate, professional-looking email account for contact with auto responder
- Look for grant opportunities to fund this program
- Phase 2 (6 Months):
- A downloadable “Melbourne Starter Kit” (PDF) or Flyer with information on TFN, MYKI, finding accommodation, setting up Bank account
- Links to professional mental health services, university counselling services, and articles on coping with homesickness or cultural adjustment
- Establish the Buddy Program network and maintain a database.
- Lodge fund application
- Phase 3 (1 Year+):
- Expand the volunteer base
- Refine resources
- Build partnerships with professional services and universities
Required Resources & Support
How We Will Get There: Resources & Partnerships
Internal Resources:
- Program facilitator
- A core dedicated team of passionate volunteers
- Leveraging our existing community infrastructure
External Partnerships:
- Local universities and institutes
- Student associations at universities
- Leveraging our existing network of professional members and university professionals
- Local council and community-based services
Call to Action & Conclusion
Let’s Build This Together
- Request: Formal endorsement of this program by the BACV Executive Committee.
- Call for volunteers: We need dedicated community members to help make this program a success.
This project is a powerful expression of BACV’s mission. By supporting our youth and strengthening our community, we are building a legacy for future generations.