United News of Bangladesh

Ahead of the much-anticipated Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (JUCSU) elections, the university administration has directed all non-students to vacate residential halls by August 16, prioritising overall campus security. The directive was announced on Sunday following the formal declaration of the JUCSU election schedule, which sets September 11 as the polling date. The announcement was made at the university’s Senate building by Professor Dr. AKM Rashidul Alam, Proctor of Jahangirnagar University and Member Secretary of the JUCSU Election Commission. "To ensure a secure environment for the upcoming JUCSU elections, we are asking former students—particularly those who have completed their master’s degrees—to vacate the halls by August 16," said Professor Rashidul Alam. "We are also requesting hall provosts to confirm compliance and take necessary steps. If required, we will take effective action." The JUCSU elections are being held for the first time in 33 years, marking a significant development in campus politics and student representation at Jahangirnagar University. Chief Election Commissioner Prof. Moniruzzaman expressed hope for a smooth electoral process. "We are organising JUCSU elections after more than three decades. Our goal is to ensure the elections are free, fair, and acceptable. We seek everyone’s cooperation in achieving that," he said.  

A group of female students at Jagannath University (JnU) formed a human chain on Sunday in protest against derogatory remarks made about the Islamic practice of 'parda' and what they called insults against women. The protest took place in front of the university’s Bhasha Shaheed Rafiq Bhaban at 3:30pm under the banner of general students. The demonstrators alleged that Shamsul Arefin, member secretary of JnU Chhatra Dal, the BNP's student front, had made a satirical post on Facebook by sharing a photo of a meeting between members of the Dhaka University (DU) unit of Islami Chhatri Sangstha, the women's branch of Jamaat e Islami's student wing, with the DU Vice-Chancellor. In follow-up comments under the post, he allegedly made sexually suggestive and offensive remarks, including the statement: “There’s excellent parda beneath a lungi. We don’t have a problem with parda — the circus does.” Group of DU students issue 24-hour ultimatum to cancel permit for UN rights office in Dhaka Students said that such comments are not only offensive but also an attack on the religious sentiments and rights of Muslim women. “The parda is not just a piece of cloth,” one protester said. “It is a matter of religious rights and emotion. In a Muslim-majority country, such trivialisation cannot be tolerated.” Participants in the human chain raised two demands: Shamsul Arefin must issue a public apology and the university administration must take effective steps to prevent the abuse of women wearing the veil. Humaira, a student from the Department of Islamic History and Culture, said “We live in a country where 94 percent of the population are Muslims. No decent person can make such insulting remarks about the veil. Why do we have to hear such things even after achieving independence? I strongly condemn and protest this.” Tisha, a student from the 2024–25 session of the Department of Drama, said the veil is a compulsory provision in Islam. It is our right as Muslim women. “No sensible person would make abusive or vulgar comments about it,” she added. Bushra, from the Philosophy Department, commented: “His words have disrespected all Muslim women. He must offer a public apology.” Sumaiya, a student of the English Department, said this is not just an insult to Muslim women—it is an insult to all women. We demand that the administration ensures no one can insult women wearing the veil in the future.” Bank officials block Ctg–Cox’s Bazar highway protesting termination of 7,000 employees The controversy erupted after Shamsul Arefin’s Facebook post went viral on Saturday night. He had shared an image of a courtesy meeting between members of the DU unit of Islami Chhatri Sangstha, and the DU Vice-Chancellor, captioning it: ‘Applause for Sir.’ In response to a comment from a Facebook user named GMS Ahmed Reza, who wrote, "Brother, where is the problem in the picture? You do politics, but don’t maintain the minimum sense on where to criticise or troll." Shamsul Arefin replied: “This is it... that Se_ is what I want to learn from Sir and Sir’s students. Sorry Sense.” His remarks drew widespread criticism on social media and fuelled anger among students, prompting today’s protest.

Islamic University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah has said that the July-August Revolution will serve as a guiding force for Bangladesh’s democratic future. The visuals of the mass uprising reflect the nation’s true identity and history, he said while speaking at the inauguration of a documentary exhibition on the "July-August Revolution" at the Faculty Building on Monday. The event, held around 11am, marked the anniversary of the July mass uprising that led to sweeping political change. "We may not remain forever, but these images will live on in our souls and in the archives of our hearts. Future generations of students will remember how the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the people united to overthrow fascism and dictatorship. This is our ideal, our inspiration," he said. Dr. Nasrullah emphasised the collective commitment to building a democratic and inclusive Bangladesh. "We will never allow fascism to return. Together, we will build a beautiful Bangladesh," he added. The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. M. Yeaqub Ali, Treasurer Professor Dr. Jahangir Alam, Dean of Arts Professor Dr. Emtiaz Hossain, July 36 Hall Provost Professor Dr. AKM Shamsul Haque Siddiqui, CSE Department Chair Professor Dr. Rabiul Haque, University Proctor Professor Dr. Shahinuzzaman, and several faculty members and student leaders, including former ASDM coordinator SM Sweet. The documentary showcases key moments from the historic movement and will remain on display for students and faculty.

In a move to uplift educational standards for lower-income students, the government is prioritising both improved amenities and the quality of learning in primary schools, Primary and Mass Education Adviser Prof Dr Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar has said. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters before a view-exchange meeting at the Rangpur District Shilpakala Academy on Monday afternoon. Dr Poddar said the School Feeding Programme (SFP) will begin in government primary schools across the country from next month. He noted that the procurement process is already underway, and training for implementation teams is in progress. "All preparations will be completed by August, and the programme will be launched in September," he said. Students urged to work hard for success The adviser explained that the initiative will be carried out nationwide through two separate projects. Of these, the larger project will cover all government primary schools in 150 upazilas, while the other will be implemented specifically in Cox's Bazar and Bandarban. Abu Taher Md Masud Rana, secretary to the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education; Md Shahidul Islam, Rangpur divisional commissioner; Abu Nur Md Shamsuzzaman, director general of the Directorate of Primary Education; and Mohammad Kamrul Hasan, director (Policy and Operation) of the same directorate, were also present. Dr Roy further said that the recruitment process for around 14,000 teachers is underway. This includes elevating head teachers to the 10th grade and hiring 3,000 head teachers through the Public Service Commission (PSC). "In addition to enhancing facilities in government primary schools for lower-income communities, the government is placing strong emphasis on quality improvement," he said. While private kindergarten students are not eligible for the current scholarship exams, a separate system is being arranged for them, he added. Around 50,000 students apply for SSC re-evaluation in Jashore; results on Aug 10 Addressing the issue of limited teaching hours, the adviser mentioned that there are only 180 school days in a year. “If there is no strong teacher-student connection, learning remains restricted,” he said. To address this, schools are being transformed into joyful learning spaces through co-curricular activities and child-friendly environments.

The British Council has recently organised its annual Young Learner Art Competition 2025 at its English Teaching Centre on Dhaka University’s Fuller Road premises, engaging young learners aged 7 to 17 in a vibrant celebration of creativity and cultural diversity. Held under the theme 'Colours of the World', the competition encouraged participants to express their perspectives on diversity, culture, and the beauty of differences through art. The event featured four age-based categories—Lower Primary (8 and under), Upper Primary (9-11), Secondary (12-15), and Upper Secondary (16 and above). Young participants submitted a wide range of imaginative artworks, which were showcased in a week-long exhibition at the centre. The initiative aimed to inspire young learners beyond the classroom by promoting creativity as part of their English language development. Teachers at the British Council played a key role in guiding students through lessons that helped them communicate their ideas through various artistic mediums. The winners and runners-up from each level were selected by a panel of judges, and their works will advance to the British Council’s regional competition in October. All participating students received certificates of appreciation. Stephen Forbes, Country Director of the British Council in Bangladesh, attended the award-giving ceremony on August 1 and commended the children's creativity. “We are delighted to host this art competition for children who have displayed a wonderful spark of imagination and creativity through their artwork themed ‘Colours of the World’. At the British Council, we provide a fun learning environment to help young learners become confident, happy, and skilled global leaders of the future,” he said. During his visit, Forbes also toured classrooms and interacted with students, parents, and guardians, sharing words of encouragement with the budding artists. The competition forms part of the British Council’s wider efforts to make English learning engaging and impactful for children and teenagers. With Cambridge-certified expert teachers, the organisation ensures personalised learning through interactive classroom sessions, online activities, and continuous progress tracking. The British Council, which has been working globally for over 90 years, supports peace and prosperity by fostering connections and trust through education, arts, and culture. Its English courses for young learners are designed to enhance creativity, communication, and confidence at every developmental stage. Interested parents or learners can avail of free phone consultations by calling +88 09666 773377 or visiting the British Council Bangladesh website: https://www.britishcouncil.org.bd/en/english-courses/kids-teens.

Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed on Wednesday urged students to embrace hard work and perseverance as the only path to true success in life. “There are no shortcuts in life. You must work hard—success will inevitably follow,” he said while addressing a reception at the International Mother Language Institute in the capital. The event was organised by Greater Noakhali Welfare Samity, Dhaka, to honour meritorious students and distinguished personalities from the Greater Noakhali region. Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud attended the event as the main discussant. Emphasising the need for holistic learning, Salehuddin noted that academic achievements alone are not enough. “Students must also learn from life experiences and spread the light of knowledge to others,” he said. Wahiduddin highlighted the importance of preserving the Noakhali dialect for future generations and outlined several development initiatives for the region. These include the planned relaunch of train services to Noakhali and the introduction of a ferry service to Hatia within the next couple of months. He clarified that there is currently no plan to construct an airport in Noakhali, but advocated for upgrading the Noakhali–Cumilla regional highway to a national highway for improved connectivity. Addressing the students, he also stressed the need to harness their talents through diligence and commitment. NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan, also speaking at the event, called upon the youth to uphold national interests in all their endeavors and combine merit with persistent effort to achieve their goals. The event concluded with both advisers distributing certificates among the honoured students.  

Dhaka University’s Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall has inaugurated a 'July Center' today at its July Shahid Smriti Bhaban as part of embracing and celebrating the spirit of the July mass uprising. This is the first hall-based 'July Center' at Dhaka University. On the occasion of this event, the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of Dhaka University, Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, was present as the chief guest. The event was presided over by Professor Dr. Md. Akhteruzzaman, the Provost of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall, while conducted by Associate Professor Dr. Md. Khorshed Alam of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism. In his speech Dr. Mamun Ahmed said that the July Revolution of 2024 was not merely a protest by students, but rather a reawakening of the nation’s conscience. Dhaka University was the inspiration, epicenter, and leading force of that awakening. Our classrooms became stages for strategic planning, and the campus turned into a fortress of struggle for justice and democracy. He further said that the spirit of building an inclusive, discrimination-free society—left by ‘July’—cannot be confined only to memory. The continuous resonance of that spirit is possible through this ‘July Center’. It will be an important hub for research, education, and inspiration for the new generation. The event was also attended by residential teachers of the hall, students, officers, and staff.

Dr Md Maksud Helali, a retired professor of Mechanical Engineering at BUET, has been appointed as the new Vice Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET). The appointment was announced Thursday in a gazette issued by the Education Ministry with the approval of the president and chancellor. Under Section 10(1) of the KUET Act 2003, Dr Helali will serve a four-year term, receiving the same salary and benefits as at BUET. Leadership vacuum paralyses Kuet; salaries unpaid, projects stalled He must reside full-time on campus. The President may cancel the appointment at any time.

A total of 49,779 applications have been submitted to the Jashore Education Board for the re-evaluation of SSC exam answer scripts. The re-evaluation results will be published on August 10, said Professor Dr Abdul Matin, Controller of Examinations at the board. The SSC results were published on July 10. This year, 138,851 students appeared in the examination under Jessore Board, of whom 102,319 passed. Following the result publication, students were given seven days—from July 11 to July 17—to apply for re-evaluation if they were dissatisfied with their scores. Applications were submitted for answer script re-checking in 24 subjects. HSC results 2024: Over 77% pass rate, GPA-5 achievers surge to 1.45 lakh According to the board, 16,128 applications were submitted for both English 1st and 2nd papers. Other notable figures include: Mathematics – 6,803; Science – 2,119; Chemistry – 3,272; Physics – 2,708; Biology – 2,176; and Bangladesh and Global Studies – 2,517. Dr Matin said experienced examiners will evaluate the scripts, and the board will ensure that students receive the scores they rightfully deserve.

The scheduled exams for today (Tuesday) in Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent have been postponed due to the BAF training aircraft crash in Uttara, Information. Youth and Sports Advisers Mahfuj Alam and Asif Mahmud respectively announced it on their verified Facebook accounts early Tuesday. They made the announcement following a directive from Education Adviser Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, read the posts. “In a meeting with the Education Adviser, the decision to postpone Tuesday’s HSC exams was confirmed,” the posts stated. The advisers took to social media to announce it around 2:30am Tuesday. Netizens and students criticized the education boards' initial decision to continue with the exams despite the national tragedy. Prof Yunus assures probe into aircraft crash, urges all not to crowd hospitals The decision followed mounting criticism on social media after the terrible aircraft crash that left dozens dead and many injured. Investigative journalist Zulkarnain Saer expressed frustration on Facebook, writing, “Where is the Health Adviser? The Education Adviser already said there’s no link between today’s tragedy and the HSC exam. How can he even say that?” Rifat Rashid, president of Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also called for postponement, writing: “Postpone tomorrow’s HSC exam, Interim Authority! After such a tragedy, no student is in a state to sit for exams.” Tuesday’s scheduled exams included Chemistry (Theory) 2nd Paper, Islamic History & Culture 2nd Paper, History or Home Economics 2nd Paper, and Production & Marketing 2nd Paper.