DU students demand dissolution of affiliation of 7 universities

A group of Dhaka University students staged a protest rally in front of the vice-chancellor’s residence today (November 1), demanding the cancellation of affiliation of seven universities and the construction of a new hall for female students.

The protesters emphasized that both the university and the students of affiliated universities did not support the union.

They issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the university administration, warning of an escalation of action – including boycotting classes and exams and closing administrative buildings – if their demands were not met.

Raihan Ferdous, co-coordinator of the Students’ Movement Against Discrimination, said students from both the University of Dhaka and seven colleges want the affiliation removed.

He also noted that 53% of Dhaka University’s students are women, yet they only have five hostels.

He questioned how new administrative buildings could be constructed for the seven universities when there were not enough accommodations for students of Dhaka University.

He added that the University of Dhaka is an autonomous institution and all decisions regarding it should be made by the university administration and students. He urged them not to accept the affiliation of the seven colleges.

Nusrat Imroz, a resident student of Bangladesh Kuwait Maitree Hall at the University of Dhaka, shared her experience of living in the Gonoroom for two years before finally obtaining an important place.

She said some graduate students still live in the Gonorooms.

The university authorities are unable to build a new auditorium for students due to budget constraints, but she asked how they will be able to build a new administration building for the seven universities.

She stated that they urgently demanded cancellation of affiliation of seven universities and that every new structure built in Dhaka University should be for female students.

In response to the protest, Dhaka University authorities have initiated urgent talks with relevant advisors and senior government officials, giving priority to the issue.

Recognizing its public importance, the government responded positively and agreed to hold an urgent meeting at ministerial level with concerned students and key stakeholders, likely this coming Sunday.