United News of Bangladesh

A group of Dhaka University (DU) students held a human chain protesting 'derogatory and racist' remarks made about the DU students by BNP Chairperson’s advisor Fazlur Rahman. They formed this human chain in front of the Raju sculpture at around 9pm on Sunday night. At that time, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Social Service Secretary A.B. Zubair, and Executive Members Tazinur Rahman, Sarba Mitra Chakma, Shahinur Rahman, and Raihan Uddin, along with university students, were present. They demanded that BNP clarify its stance regarding Fazlur Rahman. DUCSU Social Service Secretary A.B. Zubair said, “There is nothing for Madrasa students to feel hurt from Fazlur Rahman’s statement. Rather, it has been proven that Madrasa students are equally competent.” He said, “By calling Fazlur Rahman ‘Fazu Pagla’ (Crazy), we are trivializing his crime and embarrassing statement. They are doing this intentionally for Awami League’s floating votes. By using old ideology bundles and Awami rhetoric, they are doing this to draw in the hidden Awami votes.” Addressing the BNP high command, he said, “Stop these madmen of yours. The proof of why you should stop them has already been delivered in the DUCSU and JUCSU elections.” Surjasen Hall Union’s newly elected VP Azizul Haque said, “You have seen what an unprecedented contribution Madrasa students made in the July Uprising. They got their chance in the university by their own merit.” “Fazlu has been making embarrassing statements," Azizul said, adding: "We want to know whether this is Fazlur’s personal statement or BNP’s statement. We want to know the BNP's clear stance.” Azizul further said, “This Dhaka University itself is an example of beautiful harmony in Bangladesh. This must be preserved. A call to BNP- rein in your Fazlu under treatment. If he keeps making such statements that destroy the unity of the people of Bangladesh, then the people will reject you with hatred.” DUCSU demands apology In response to Fazlur Rahman’s statement, it has been stated from the DUCSU office that he must unconditionally apologize to the students of Dhaka University. In a press release signed by DUCSU General Secretary S.M. Farhad, the newly-elected student parliament strongly condemned and protested what it called "derogatory comments" made by BNP Chairperson’s advisor Advocate Fazlur Rahman about the students of Dhaka University. “After the DUCSU election, from the leadership level of BNP, Dhaka University students have been termed with hateful epithets such as ‘sold-out brains,’ ‘going with the trend,’ ‘slave,’ ‘backward,’ etc. At the same time, Fazlur Rahman remarked that Dhaka University has turned into Hathazari Madrasa. Through this comment, he has expressed his extreme hatred toward Dhaka University students and a racist attitude of social division. Such an expression of hateful mentality in post-2024 Bangladesh is contrary to the aspirations of July,” the statement asserts. The press release further states, “Dhaka University Central Students’ Union firmly asserts that such derogatory remarks are in no way acceptable. Advocate Fazlur Rahman must unconditionally apologize to the student community of Dhaka University for his irresponsible and condemnable remarks. He must refrain from making such divisive and hateful comments in the future.”

Author and academic Dr. Salimullah Khan has said that the main cause of the decline or collapse of governance is the self-deception of the ruling class.  "When rulers believe that every action they take is unquestionably correct and all other opinions and practices are wrong, deterioration in governance inevitably follows," he said. Dr. Salimullah was addressing a two-day freshers’ orientation programme for the 2024-25 academic session held at Birshrestha Hamidur Rahman Auditorium at Islamic University in Kushtia on Sunday. The second day of the two-day event welcomed students from the Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Business Administration, and Faculty of Arts. He further said, "The blood and sacrifices of millions of people under previous regimes have often gone unrecognized, and the consequences were never favorable. Considering the post-July 2024 context, those who have left the country or gone into hiding may return publicly, potentially giving rise to even harsher forms of intolerance." Highlighting ongoing literacy challenges, Dr. Salimullah said, "Illiteracy still persists at the primary level in our country. Yet we struggle, sometimes violently, to establish universities—many of which were founded at the cost of lives. Meanwhile, primary schools remain underdeveloped." He pointed to government statistics that 26 percent of our population cannot even sign their name. "Despite gaps in primary and secondary education, we have competed to establish universities." Presided over by IU vice-chancellor Professor Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah, IU pro-vice-chancellor Professor M Yeaqub Ali and Treasurer Professor M Mohammad Jahangir Alam were present as the special guests. Deans, faculty members, students, and university officials from various departments were also present on the occasion. The program began with religious scripture recitation, followed by the national anthem, a moment of silence for the July martyrs, awards for top scorers, floral greetings for freshers, and a university documentary screening. The event concluded with a cultural program.

Professor Johurul Islam of the Law Department at Islamic University in Kushtia has been dismissed for being absent from his department for over a year without permission. The decision was formalized through a notification signed by the university’s acting registrar, Professor Manjurul Haque, according to officials from the IU registrar’s office on Sunday. His dismissal follows decision no. 24 of the 270th Syndicate meeting held on August 28, 2025. Currently, Dr. Johurul Islam is in the United States, enrolled in an MS program in Instructional Design and Technology at the University of North Dakota. According to the registrar’s office, Johurul had been absent without permission since August 21, 2024. Following the 197th Standing Committee meeting on leave held on December 9, 2024, he was instructed to return to duty within a month but failed to comply. He continued to remain absent without authorization. Subsequently, an investigation committee was formed as per the 267th Syndicate meeting on February 26, 2025, to review the allegations, determine the severity of the misconduct, and recommend appropriate action. Based on the committee’s recommendation, Johurul was removed from his position, effective from August 21, 2024. Attempts to contact Johurul, currently abroad, including via WhatsApp, were unsuccessful.

The University Grants Commission Chairman Professor SMA Faiz has assured that all vacant teaching positions in public universities across the country will be filled as quickly as possible. He made the remarks while delivering the keynote speech at the first day of the two-day fresher orientation programme for the 2024-2025 academic session held at Birshreshtha Hamidur Rahman Auditorium of Islamic University in Kushtia on Saturday. 'Universities are facing severe teacher shortages. We will hold a meeting in the coming days and make every effort to approve the vacant positions. I will do everything possible for Islamic University and other universities. A dedicated team is already working on this plan, he said. Presided over by the university vice-chancellor, Professor Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah, IU pro-vice-chancellor Professor M Yeaqub Ali and treasurer Professor M Jahangir Alam were present here as the special guests. IU Arabic Language and Literature department Professor M Rafiqul Islam and Social Welfare department lecturer M Habibur Rahman jointly conducted the event while the event convener and Social Sciences faculty dean Professor Begum Roksana Mili delivered welcome speech. Addressing the freshmen, Dr. Faiz recalled, 'In 2012, two students of Islamic University went missing. That reflected the political reality of the past sixteen years. We could not liberate the country, but the students of today have taken on that responsibility. I am grateful to you all for your courage in defending our freedom.' Among others, IU acting registrar Professor M Manjurul Haque, Law faculty dean Professor Khandakar Tauhidul Alam, Biological Sciences faculty dean Professor Babli Sabina Azhar, student adviser Professor Obaidul Islam, and proctor Professor Shahinuzzaman were present on the occasion. Later, a cultural function participated by teachers and students of different departments of the university was held there.

Islamic University authorities have launched an environment-friendly electric shuttle car service for students on the campus in Kushtia. IU Vice-Chancellor Professor Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah inaugurated the 14-seat electric vehicles on a trial basis on Saturday. According to the VC’s office, the shuttles will operate across the entire campus, with a flat fare of Tk 5 regardless of distance. Electric shuttle car service launched at DU The vehicles were purchased through an installment plan, under which the university will gain full ownership within two years. University Grants Commission Chairman SMA Faiz, IU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor M Yeaqub Ali, Treasurer Professor M Jahangir Alam, Acting Registrar Professor Monjurul Haque, and Dean of the Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies Professor ABM Siddiqur Rahman Ashrafi were among those present at the launch.  

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed on Saturday said spending on education is always an investment in the nation’s future. “By investing in education, we are not merely helping individual students—we are shaping the future of the country,” he said while addressing a scholarship distribution ceremony of the Brahmanbaria District Association, Dhaka. He praised Brahmanbaria as the ‘Land of Heritage and Harmony’, and lauded the community’s unity and vision for building a district recognised for knowledge, culture and innovation. The Association hosted its Executive Committee Installation and Scholarship Award Ceremony at International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB), highlighting both the district’s heritage and its ongoing commitment to education and social advancement. A total of 312 scholarships were distributed among meritorious students—25 at Honours level, 182 at HSC level, and 105 at SSC level, aimed at nurturing academic excellence and creating opportunities for Brahmanbaria’s youth. Quality services needed to boost revenue collection: Finance adviser Brahmanbaria District Association President MA Khalek said the district has a proud tradition of producing leaders, scholars and artists. “Today we renew our commitment to building a Brahmanbaria recognised for its talent and contribution, not for negative stereotypes,” he said. General Secretary Engineer Md Khaled Hossain Mahbub (Shyamal) said the gathering was ‘a call to action’ to create and uphold a positive image of Brahmanbaria across Bangladesh and beyond. The event ended with cultural performances showcasing the rich traditions of the district, reinforcing the message of unity and pride in its heritage.

The Institute of Nutrition and Food Science (INFS) at the University of Dhaka hosted ‘INFSian Reunion-2025’ on Friday. The event brought together former students from across generations, said a media release. The day-long event turned the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC) into a vibrant gathering place filled with joy, nostalgia, and camaraderie, The reunion was graced by the Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, as the chief guest. Prof. Dr. Md Saidul Arefin, Director of INFS, presided over the programme. The event began with a welcome address delivered by Md Saimumuzzaman, President of the INFSian Alumni Association. Former teachers and alumni were honored at the event in recognition of their contributions. In addition, Alumni Association General Secretary Md Zahidul Monir presented an overview of the association’s background, activities, and future plans. With lively interactions, shared memories, and renewed bonds, the reunion created a bridge between past and present students, highlighting the legacy and spirit of the INFS community at Dhaka University.

Jagannath University (JnU) has arranged special buses for candidates of the 47th BCS examination scheduled for Friday. The buses will operate on three routes from the university’s transport pool. JnU Transport Administrator Tarek Bin Atik said the first bus will leave the campus at 6:45 am. He mentioned in a Facebook post on Thursday night that the buses will be at Shaheed Minar by 6 am and depart between 6:45 and 7 am. BAU to run special bus service for BCS examinees One route will cover Gulistan, Shahbagh, Farmgate, and Mohammadpur. Another will go through Gulistan, Mogbazar, Mouchak, and Titumir College. The third will operate via Gulistan, Bangla College, and Mirpur. This initiative is aimed at helping BCS candidates reach their examination centers smoothly and on time.

Masud Rumi Mithun, member secretary of the Islamic University unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, has applied for a grade improvement examination eight years after his undergraduate results were published, in violation of university regulations. According to the university’s examination ordinance, grade improvement applications must be submitted within 20 days of result publication. Mithun cited political circumstances at the time as the reason for missing the original opportunity, and his late application has sparked discussion on campus. Mithun, an English Department student from the 2011–12 academic session, received his results in 2017. Despite the eight-year gap, he submitted his application to the department head in the first week of September 2025. Other students from the same department, including Ullash Mahmud (2011–12 batch) and Tapas Adhikari (2017–18 batch), have also applied for grade improvements. Ullash Mahmud is an active IU Chhatra Dal member and joint secretary of the Jhenaidah district student wing. Both Mithun and Mahmud have applied for grade improvements in more than 14 courses. According to department sources, the departmental academic committee reviewed their applications and recommended them to the university’s Controller of Examinations. Professor Shahadat Hossain Azad, head of the English Department, noted that the university rules allow grade improvement exams under certain circumstances. Mithun told reporters, 'I applied for grade improvement because my results were poor. I could not study properly or take exams at that time. Now, with better conditions, I hope to improve my grades.' Ullash Mahmud said, 'I could not sit for the exams properly back then. My application is purely to appear for the exams.' Senior university officials said that normally, grade improvement or retake exams must be taken soon after results are published. Long-delayed applications are uncommon but may be considered on humanitarian grounds if required for certification. However, the university’s 2006–07 and 2017–18 ordinances specify that grade improvement applications must be submitted within 20 days of result publication through the department head to the Controller of Examinations. Failure to do so generally means the original results remain valid, and no further opportunity is granted. Islamic University forms committee to draft Iucsu constitution IU acting controller of examinations M Waliur Rahman said, 'I have not yet received any recommendation from the English Department. Whether grade improvement can be allowed after such a long time is unclear; we will need to review the ordinance.' IU English department chairman Professor Shahadat Hossain Azad said, 'After the departmental academic committee meeting, recommendations were forwarded to the university authorities. The final decision on whether the grade improvement will be approved depends on their verification and review.'  

Islami Chhatra Shibir on Thursday  announced its panel for the upcoming Chattogram University Central Students’ Union (CUCSU) and hall union elections. The announcement was made in the afternoon by Shibir’s human resources secretary Saidul Islam at Jarultala area of the university. The panel was named ‘Sampritir Shikkharthi Jot’. Ibrahim Hossain, president of Chattogram Metropolitan South unit of Shibir and an MPhil student of the Department of History at CU, was nominated for vice president (VP) post. Md. Saeed Bin Habib, literature secretary of CU Shibir and a postgraduate student of the Department of History, was announced to run for the general secretary (GS) post. Additionally, Sajjad Hossain, president of Shahjalal Hall unit of Shibir and a postgraduate student of the Department of Finance, was announced to contest for the assistant general secretary (AGS) position. Akash Das, a visually challenged third-year student of the Hindu community, was also included in the Shibir panel to run for the post of an executive member. Other candidates on the panel - Mohammad Shawon for sports and games secretary, Shahporan Maruf for assistant sports secretary, Harezul Islam (Hares Matabbar) for literature, culture, and publications secretary, and Jihad Hossain (Jihad Ahnaf) for assistant literature secretary. Abdullah Al Noman and Jannatul Adan Nusrat were nominated for office secretary and assistant office secretary, respectively. Tahsina Rahman was nominated to run for social welfare and environment secretary, Tanvir Anzum Shovon for research and innovation secretary, and Mahbubur Rahman for science and IT secretary. Nahima Akter Dipa and Jannatul Ferdous Rita were announced to contest for female student welfare secretary and assistant female student welfare secretary, respectively. Other posts included Afnan Hossain Imran for health secretary, Monayem Sharif for liberation war and democratic movement secretary, Mehedi Hasan Sohan for career development and international affairs secretary, Ishak Bhuiya for communication and housing secretary, Obaidul Salman as assistant communication secretary, Tawhid Rabbi for law and human rights secretary, and Masum Billah for library and cafeteria secretary. Aside from Akash Das, executive members included Jannatul Ferdous Sanjida, Salman Farsi, Sohanur Rahman Sohan, and Adnan Sharif. From DUCSU to JUCSU: Shibir’s winning streak rolls on It is to be noted that the CUCSU and hall union elections will be held on October 12 after a 35-year gap. About 27,000 students are eligible to vote and 1,162 students collected nomination papers to contest different posts. The preliminary list of candidates will be published on September 21. The last date to withdraw candidacy is September 23, and the final candidate list will be released on September 25.