Food Security Awareness among University Students: A Case Study on CCN University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh

Abstract

Food insecurity has emerged as a significant global public health concern, with developing nations being particularly affected. This paper seeks to better understand food insecurity among private university students. The informants were CCN university students chosen on purpose. An online questionnaire survey was conducted to ensure accurate information collection. Understanding the causes, coping strategies, and consequences of food insecurity is crucial. The study employed a qualitative methodology to explore their perspectives on food insecurity. The final sample comprised 100 students, who were surveyed using an online questionnaire. The online survey, hosted on Google Forms, facilitated data collection. Data collection took place from February 2025 through the spring semester. The study identified several factors that contribute to food insecurity, including cafeteria closures, financial issues, limited transportation, poor food quality, and time constraints. To overcome these challenges, students used various coping strategies such as purchasing food outside campus grounds, storing food, reducing meal portions, choosing cheaper foods, choosing cleaner cafeterias, requesting outside food from friends, and skipping meals altogether. As a result, students experienced anxiety, fatigue, difficulty concentrating in class, and illness. The university authorities should be made aware of food insecurity issues among students. Furthermore, students should be encouraged to abandon unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as skipping meals, and instead adopt more sustainable and healthier strategies.