A three-day winter book fair has been organized at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University, jointly hosted by the Dawah Circle and the Islamic Studies Culture Club of the university. The fair was inaugurated on Thursday at 10:30am by Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, who was joined by prominent guests, including Islamic Arabic University Vice-Chancellor Md. Shamsul Alam and Dhaka University Proctor Dr. Saifuddin Ahmed. In his opening remarks, Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan underscored the university's role in advancing knowledge. "The primary task of a university is to promote the pursuit of knowledge and spread it across all levels of society. Events like this align with that mission, and students should seize this opportunity for learning," he said. Md. Shamsul Alam commended the initiative, emphasizing its significance. "This is a welfare-oriented initiative, and we should all support such efforts," he remarked. Protest at DU: Felani's father recalls harrowing moments of daughter's tragic death Proctor Dr. Saifuddin Ahmed highlighted the novelty of the event, saying, "This kind of practice was not common before. While academic books are important, exploring other types of literature is equally crucial. This fair serves as a warm-up for the upcoming book fair in February." Following the inauguration, the distinguished guests visited the 20 stalls set up at the fair, representing various publishers. Students were seen actively participating as the event began, exploring a wide range of books available.

A group of female students of Dhaka University have observed hunger strike demanding necessary measures to end their accommodation crisis.                                     They gathered in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s residence at 11 am on Monday and started hunger strike. The demands of the students include allocating 100% seats for them starting from the first year, abolishing the "Ghonoroom", managing temporary accommodation until new female halls are established and constructing new female dormitories inside the main campus. SUST students protest against discriminatory quotas and high fees Allowing non-resident female students to enter the female halls, cancelling the doubling system for beds, shifting  Kuwait-Maitree and Bangamata halls to the main campus by constructing new buildings are among their demands. University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor Sayma Haque Bidisha, met with the protesting students. The students ended their hunger strike at 4 pm upon assurance from the Pro-VC. Teachers should be honored with the highest status: Hasnat Abdullah Sadia Sultana Promi, a student of the Department of Sociology said, "The university administration has reassured us. They have promised to sit with us on Thursday. However, we have told them that we expect a decision. If our demands are not met, the female students will lay siege to the Vice-Chancellor's residence on Thursday afternoon."

The Institute of Business Administration (IBA) of Dhaka University held the admission test for the 2024-2025 academic year on Friday. A total of 10,278 students participated in the tests for 120 seats. Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan visited the IBA exam centre. Also present were Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Sayma Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Treasurer Professor Dr. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Proctor Associate Professor Saifuddin Ahmed, and the Director of the Institute, Professor Shakil Huda. After inspecting the exam centre the vice-chancellor said that the tests were conducted in anorderly, peaceful, and competitive environment. Read: Over 69% candidates participate in Agriculture Cluster Admission Test The cooperation of volunteer students, the proctorial team, law enforcement agencies, and various volunteer organisations made it possible to control traffic and maintain discipline inside the university. The exam for the "Fine Arts Unit" undergraduate programme (General Knowledge and Drawing) will be held tomorrow. Additionally, the exam for the "Arts, Law, and Social Sciences Unit" will be held on Saturday; the "Science Unit" exam will be held on February 1 and the "BBA" exam will take place on February 8. The admission exams for all units will be held from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm.

The White Panel of Dhaka University teachers, backed by BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, has split following the announcement of rival committee. On Monday, at a general meeting of the White Panel, Professor Dr. Morshed Hasan Khan was elected as the convenor with the highest votes and professors Dr. Abdus Salam and Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Sarkar were nominated as joint convenors for 2025 and 2026. However, a faction of the White Panel rejected the committee, claiming that the election was “influenced” in various ways. In a press conference held at 9 pm on the same day, they announced an ad-hoc committee with a 6-member advisory council and one convenor and two joint convenors. The convenor of this committee is Professor Dr. Aminul Islam Talukdar from the Department of Physics, with professors Dr. Mohammad Alamujadeddin Alfeshani from the Department of Botany and Dr. Mezbah-ul-Islam from the Department of Information Science and Library Management as the joint convenors. The advisory council consists of Professor Dr. Md. Selim Reza from the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Professor Dr. Md. Enamul Haque from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Professor Dr. Md. Ataur Rahman Miazi from the Department of Islamic History and Culture, Professor Dr. Mohammad Shafiq Ahmed from the Department of Islamic Studies, Professor Dr. Md. Emran Kaiyum from the Department of Chemistry, and Professor Dr. S.M. Mostafa Al Mamun from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. DU white panel elects new convening committee In a written statement, Aminul Islam Talukdar said, “The current White Panel is being led by a small opportunistic clique, with professor Morshed Hasan Khan as convenor, and professors Abdus Salam and Abul Kalam Sarkar as joint convenors. Professor Morshed holds several positions in BNP. According to BNP’s policy, ‘one leader, one position’ is a principle that White Panel’s professionals seek.” “We believe that Professor Morshed is aligning with a special syndicate within the White Panel, which is raising questions,” the statement said. “The two joint convenors, professors Abdus Salam and Abul Kalam Sarkar, having been members of this clique for 10-15 years, have also lost their moral right to hold the proposed positions. In this context, the White Panel must undergo a reorganization with new leadership,” the statement added. Regarding the allegations, Dr. Abdus Salam said, “As far as I know, no one has illegally influenced the election. We were nominated based on our constitution and everyone's opinion. They could not come to power, and perhaps due to this frustration, they have separated. We hope that they will also join us. We will work together again.”

The white panel of Dhaka University teachers, backed by BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, has got a new convening committee, says a press release. Professor Dr. Morshed Hasan Khan of the Department of Marketing has been chosen as  the convener with the highest number of votes. Professors Dr. Abdus Salam and Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Sarkar are the new joint conveners. DU students throw shoes at redrawn image of Hasina on metro rail pillar The new committee will be in office for the next two years, according to the press release on Monday. It said  the central convener and two joint conveners for 2025 and 2026 were elected at a general meeting of the white panel on Monday. DU restricts outsiders’ entry on 31st night

Like the rest of the country, Dhaka University will observe Victory Day on Monday, (December 16), with various programmes. The University’s public relations office confirmed this on Sunday. The day’s activities will include the hoisting of the national flag at 6:20 AM at the Vice-Chancellor's office and other significant university buildings. At 6:30 AM, a gathering will take place at the "Smriti Chironton" adjacent to the Vice-Chancellor’s office, followed by a procession at 6:35 AM, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan. University teachers, students, staff, and employees will proceed to the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar to lay a wreath. Chief Adviser unveils commemorative postage stamp on Victory Day Additionally, at 5:45 PM, a cultural programme will be held at the Teacher-Student Center (TSC) Auditorium, organized jointly by the university's Departments of Music, Dance, and Theatre & Performance Studies. The program will feature musical, dance, and theatrical performances. On this day, special prayers will be offered after the Zohar prayer at the central mosque of the university, Masjidul Jamia, as well as at various hall and residential area mosques, to pray for the forgiveness of the martyrs' souls and for the prosperity and progress of the country. Special prayers will also be held at other places of worship for the peace of the martyrs' souls. In addition, the university will illuminate key buildings such as the Arts Building, Curzon Hall, TSC and Smriti Chironton in honour of the day.  

To control the influx of incoming vehicles and ensure a safer environment for students, Dhaka University has installed car barriers and security surveillance boxes at seven key entry points to its campus. The measures, implemented on Friday, have significantly reduced traffic congestion, allowing students to navigate the campus more comfortably. Associate Professor Saifuddin Ahmed, the university’s Proctor, explained that restricting vehicle movement is aimed at safeguarding students. Entry points including Shahbagh, Nilkhet, and Doel Chattar have been equipped with car barriers and surveillance infrastructure. The restrictions are enforced from 3 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 5 PM on weekdays. The cooperation of city residents is essential in maintaining this initiative, stated the university administration in an appeal. Read:Excitement brews at Dhaka University as Ducsu elections loom Observations on Friday revealed a stark reduction in traffic compared to regular days. A member of the Dhaka University Proctorial Body’s mobile team confirmed that only emergency vehicles, patients, university guests, or official university cars are permitted entry. However, the official acknowledged challenges, noting that some individuals have attempted to bypass the rules. Students have expressed relief and satisfaction over the changes. Noby Hossain Majumder, a Law Department student, shared his experience: “The situation on campus today is completely different. Previously, external vehicles made crossing roads nerve-wracking. Now, with restricted access, the campus feels safe and free of traffic.” Zakaria Ahmed, another student, echoed similar sentiments: “I used to avoid coming to TSC because of the vehicle rush. Today, it feels peaceful. We hope this initiative continues.”    

Dhaka University’s announcement regarding the much-sought Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) election has stirred a wave of enthusiasm and expectations among students and student organisations. The elections, expected to be held in late January or early February next year, are seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the democratic fabric of campus life. Amend DUCSU constitution, immediately hold election: Biplobi Chhatra Moitri The prospect of Ducsu elections has revived hopes for a democratic and transparent process that could create a healthier political environment on campus. Emphasising the significance of this development, Sadiq Kayem, president of DU Chhatra Shibir, said, “We welcome the decision to hold Ducsu elections. If democracy and voting rights are ensured at Dhaka University, it will positively impact the whole of Bangladesh. The July-August uprising has created new hopes among students, and we want to see new approaches beyond traditional political practices.” Kayem also stressed the importance of prioritising the aspirations of students while fostering cooperation and tolerance among student organisations. Setu Bhaban case: Former DUCSU VP Nur sent to jail Voices of Student Leaders Abu Baker Majumder, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, echoed these sentiments, noting that the August 5 uprising had ignited fresh expectations for Ducsu elections. “As the anti-discrimination movement has consistently championed students’ rights, we aim to represent them if elections take place,” he said. Majumder highlighted the need for reforms in the Ducsu constitution, including discussions on the vice-chancellor’s role as president and transparency in budget allocation. “We hope the administration engages all stakeholders to ensure Ducsu’s effective functioning.”  Referring to concerns about electoral fairness, he urged measures to prevent malpractice in residential halls. Ganesh Chandra Roy Shahos, president of DU Chhatra Dal, expressed caution over the timing of the elections. “The campus and the nation are still recovering from the trauma of the July-August uprising. Holding the elections too soon or too late could disrupt the level playing field. A clear roadmap is essential to ensure a positive and festive electoral environment,” he said. Calls for Reforms Salman Siddique, coordinator of Gonotantrik Chhatra Jhut, an alliance of eight leftist student organisations, demanded the immediate holding of elections. “We want the Ducsu elections to be held promptly, but not a repeat of the one-sided election of 2019.” Siddique urged the administration to consult all student organisations and ensure an equitable environment for candidates. He also called for the formation of a commission to reform the Ducsu constitution, adding that his alliance would field like-minded candidates. Jabir Ahmed Jubel, general secretary of Biplobi Chhatra Moitri, voiced similar demands. “The vice-chancellor should not wield undue power as Ducsu president but must be obligated to implement its decisions. Voting centres should also be relocated to faculties for greater accessibility,” Jubel suggested. DSA case against ex-DUCSU VP Nur dismissed Campus Abuzz The announcement has electrified the campus, with students and organizations gearing up for a potentially transformative election. Many believe that a fair and transparent Ducsu election could reshape the political dynamics of Dhaka University, fostering greater inclusivity and democratic engagement. The road ahead is fraught with challenges. Ensuring a level playing field, addressing grievances regarding the Ducsu constitution and preventing electoral malpractice are critical to realising the students' aspirations. As the university administration prepares to finalise the election timeline, the anticipation is palpable. Chargesheet filed against ex-DUCSU VP Nur under DSA  Students hope that this long-overdue election will not only fulfill their democratic rights but also set a precedent for positive change across the nation.

Dhaka University (DU) students staged a protest on Thursday night in front of the Vice-Chancellor's residence after Prof Shishir Bhattacharya of the Institute of Modern Languages posted comments on Facebook that were deemed insulting to Islam and the martyrs of the July-August uprising. During the protest, students chanted slogans such as "Break the syndicate of the killers, crush them," "Religious insult will not be tolerated," "Shishir, where are you?" "Insulting the Prophet, we Muslims will not tolerate," and "Boycott the teacher’s association, boycott!" among others. The protesters presented a three-point demand to the Vice-Chancellor, insisting on the dismissal of Shishir and his prosecution for insulting religion, dismantling the current illegal syndicate to form a lawful one, and removing fascist teacher’s associates while taking legal action against them. Dhaka University teachers, staff bring out victory procession Mossadek Ali, a student from the Bangla department, said, “If our three-point demands are not met soon, we will launch a more intense movement. Over the next two days, we will carry out public outreach to garner support for our cause.” Another student, A B Zubayer, said, “When any teacher insults religion, we no longer consider them a teacher but a scoundrel. Shishir Bhattacharya has dared to do this. We demand his resignation and punishment.” He also criticised the teacher’s association, claiming, “The association is trying to rehabilitate fascist forces by electing the Nil Dal. Many fascist allies still hold positions within the teacher’s association. This attempt by the Nil Dal to bring back fascism must be stopped.” Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan joined the protest and assured the students that their demands would be considered legally. Dhaka University lifts ban on Pakistani students Addressing the allegations against Shihir, the VC said, “Any form of religious insult is a despicable act. We cannot tolerate such behaviour. The martyrs of the 24th are revered heroes, and insulting them is a vile act. Legal action will be taken against anyone who engages in such behaviour.” Regarding the syndicate issues, the Niaz said, “Many members of the university’s syndicate have already been removed through legal processes, and the remaining issues will also be resolved in the same manner.” Chhatra Dal activists demonstrate at Dhaka University

On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the Dhaka University branch of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, the BNP's student front, organised an open discussion titled "Future thoughts on human rights in Bangladesh and the role of student society". The event was held at the historic Bottola near the Faculty of Arts building of Dhaka University on Tuesday. In the discussion, the speakers highlighted various human rights violations during the Awami League's rule, including abductions and killings, and expressed their commitment to fight for human rights in the future. To the anti-discrimination student movement, Rakibul Islam Rakib, President of Chhatra Dal, said, "It is sad that on 'World Human Rights Day,' we did not see any program from them. This is a sign of narrow-mindedness. If any program is organized for Human Rights Day, Chhatra Dal's heroism must be mentioned. Chhatra Dal has been active on every campus, on the streets for the last 15 years. When you hear about abductions, you will hear the voices of families of Chhatra Dal who lost loved ones in these abductions. The student society will be compelled to acknowledge that the stage for this July-August has been prepared on the blood of Chhatra Dal." He added, "At the Dhaka University campus, at the Aparajeyo Bangla, in front of the Raju sculpture, Chhatra Dal has faced hundreds of attacks from the Chhatra League. Chhatra Dal at Dhaka University and its various leaders and activists have been severely tortured, many have become disabled, and many could not complete their education. We demand that the perpetrators of these attacks be brought to justice." "For the last 15 years, Chhatra Dal had limited access to campus. During this time, we have not been able to stand by ordinary students through our activities. We have just begun our activities, and we appeal to the university administration to ensure that Chhatra Dal can reach its goals and objectives to the general students." Professor Mohammad Murshed Hasan Khan from the Department of Marketing at Dhaka University spoke about the oppression of the Zia family and himself during Sheikh Hasina's rule. He said, "False cases were filed against leader Khaleda Zia and she was imprisoned for years. During the one-eleven regime, Khaleda Zia's son, Arafat Rahman Khuku, passed away due to the torture inflicted on him. The barbarity conducted under the direction of Sheikh Hasina during the one-eleven government on Tarique Rahman to kill him surpassed even medieval times." Read: 3 JCD leaders suspended for breaching discipline in Barishal He added, "'Ziaur Rahman is the announcer of independence'. For saying this, I was terminated from Dhaka University under Sheikh Hasina’s orders. My wife, who was suffering from cancer, was thrown out of the university dormitory on a one-day notice. 27 cases were filed against me including 2 traitor charges. The police used to harass my parents at my house in Uttara." Murshed demanded justice for the torture he suffered, saying, "The government must address this, or else the independence won by the blood of the people will fail, and no one should ever face such oppression again." He further added, "The Dhaka University administration is still working with the fascists of the Awami League. Through this administration, fascist have been recruited." He urged Chhatra Dal to stay vigilant and protest.