The government has initiated the process of nationalising Shaheed Zia Degree College in Gabtali upazila of Bogura, fulfilling a commitment made by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman during his recent visit to the district.

The Ministry of Education issued a circular on April 29 asking the relevant authorities to take all necessary steps for nationalising the college, saying the Prime Minister has given in principle his approval to the matter.

According to the circular, several administrative and legal steps have been ordered as part of the nationalisation process.

These include a restriction on new recruitment and the transfer of moveable and immovable property, the submission of reports following an on-site inspection of the institution, and on its financial status, legal matters and other relevant issues.

The ministry asked for a legal opinion from the legal adviser of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education on whether the institution is facing any cases, along with a formal affidavit from the head of the institution.

Officials concerned have been instructed to complete the required procedures and submit their reports to the ministry as quickly as possible.

During his visit to Bogura on April 20 last, the Prime Minister attended a public programme at the college ground in Bagbari of Gabtali, where local residents and students displayed banners and chanted slogans demanding that the institution be nationalised.

Responding to the demand, Tarique Rahman immediately announced government takeover of the college. “Your demand is that this college should be nationalised? Consider it done. The paperwork will reach you,” he had said.

The nationalisation of the college is expected to expand access to higher education in the area, particularly benefiting students from the birthplace of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.