NSTU must not merge Social Work and Sociology departments

Social Work is globally recognised as a distinct and respected professional discipline, comparable to the fields of medicine, engineering, and education. In contrast, Sociology is an academic and theoretical field of study that focuses on analysing the origins, development, and dynamics of society through scientific inquiry. While both subjects share thematic concerns about human society, their academic foundations, practical applications, and professional scopes differ significantly.
It is therefore deeply concerning that the administration of Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) has decided to merge the Department of Social Work with the Department of Sociology. Such a move not only disregards the fundamental differences between the two disciplines but also risks undermining the professional identity of Social Work-a subject that is internationally recognised and already has two graduated cohorts and an ongoing postgraduate programme at the university.
This decision has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among students, who rightly fear that the merger will negatively affect their future career prospects in both public and private sectors. Merging a professional subject like Social Work with a theoretical discipline such as Sociology could lead to serious consequences, including loss of recognition, job discrimination, and diminished professional credibility.
The students of the Social Work Department strongly oppose this merger and demand that the decision be revoked immediately. Preserving the academic and professional integrity of the Social Work Department is essential-not only for student welfare but also to enable future graduates to make meaningful contributions to society and national development.

Shah Muntacher Hossain Mihan , Student
Department of Social Work
Noakhali Science And Technology University