United News of Bangladesh

The technical session of the second day of the three-day International Conference and Bioscience Carnival (ICBC), organised for the first time by the joint initiative of Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU) and Bangladesh Biosafety and Biosecurity Society (BBBS), was held on Saturday. The session began at 9 am and lasted until 3:45 pm. It was conducted in three sessions in the conference room of the university’s Academic Building. Around 7–10 research papers were presented in each session, including keynote and invited speeches. Meanwhile, posters were displayed from 12 pm to 1 pm, during which the selection committee evaluated them. At this conference, researchers presented approximately 84 papers on the diagnosis and treatment of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases in animals and agriculture, drug discovery and development; cancer and diabetes, antimicrobial resistance control, infection prevention, biosafety and biosecurity, alternative medicine, and natural products in human, animal, and environmental health. Professors, researchers, and students from various renowned research institutions presented papers at this ICBC conference. Three research papers were presented by students and researchers from Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU). These studies covered issues related to ethno-medicinal plants in the hilly region, new industries in agriculture, and the impact of pests and diseases on different species of trees. Each research paper highlighted the research goals, objectives, results, impacts, and proposals for action. In his closing remarks, Dr Chandan Kumar Roy, Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, Bangladesh Medical University, and Co-Chair of ICBC, thanked the professors and researchers from various renowned universities and research institutions across the country. He also highlighted the history of BBBS from its inception and its important role in the health sector by providing laboratory services during the Covid-19 period. He expressed hope for future collaboration with RMSTU. RMSTU Vice-Chancellor and ICBC Chairman Professor Dr Md Atiyar Rahman urged researchers from various government and private research institutions to create internship opportunities for RMSTU students in their institutions or laboratories and to foster cooperation. He also expressed his gratitude to the teachers, researchers, students, officials, employees, sponsors, and media partners from various universities and research institutions who participated in the conference.  

The three-day ‘International Bioscience Conference and Carnival’ is set to begin on Friday at Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU). With the theme “Innovation and Collaboration in Bioscience, Biosafety, and Biosecurity: Bridging Sustainable Health and Agriculture,” the event aims at bringing together local and international scientists, researchers, and students for exchanging knowledge and sharing innovation. The opening ceremony will begin at 2:30pm at the Rangamati Tourism Holiday Complex where RMSTU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Atiar Rahman will deliver a welcome speech. Keynote speeches from leading national researchers and a discussion session on infectious disease control, genetic research, artificial intelligence, and health technologies are scheduled to be held. Over the next two days, all sessions will be hosted on the RMSTU campus. The event features a wide array of activities including lectures, technical sessions, poster presentations, a science-themed debate, idea contests and a vibrant science carnival. Second IHSB Business Carnival to begin on Friday at Uttara Researchers will present findings on emerging topics such as new drug discoveries, evolving strains of dengue and influenza, the use of probiotics, and AI-driven disease diagnostics. Organisers expressed hope that the conference will mark a new chapter for scientific research and innovation in the hill region, strengthening the academic and research ecosystem of Rangamati and beyond.

Students of Jagannath University (JnU) continued their sit-in protest for a second consecutive day on Thursday, occupying the busy Kakrail intersection in Dhaka to press home their three-point demand. They blocked the road at Kakrail chanting slogans like “Aposh Na Sngram, Sangram Sangram,” “Dalali Na Rajpath, Rajpath Rajpath,” “Lorai Lorai Lorai Sai, Lorai Kora Bashta Sai.” Their demands are housing allowance for 70% students of the university from the next fiscal year, approving a full budget for Jagannath University for the 2025-26 fiscal year and building a second campus for the university. 10 injured in clash between two BNP factions in Rajshahi The students declared that they would not vacate the streets until their demands are met. Law enforcement personnel, including members of the army, police, and SWAT teams, were deployed to maintain order in the area. Police foil long march of JnU students near Jamuna  

A crucial step has been taken towards the long-sought Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu) election, as the university administration confirms the possibility of forming the Ducsu Election Commission soon. According to the election timeline published in mid-April, the commission was scheduled to be formed in the first half of May and work is currently progressing towards that objective. Once constituted, the commission will officially initiate the Ducsu election process. Professor Dr Sayma Haque Bidisha, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of Dhaka University, said, “The election commission may be formed soon. We are considering a few names—individuals capable of connecting with students, fostering good relations and organising a fair election. We are speaking with those who are experienced and broadly acceptable.” Earlier, a survey indicated that students supported a jointly formed commission with representation from both students and teachers. Overwhelming majority of students in favour of DUCSU election by June: Survey Addressing this, Dr Bidisha noted, “Students have given some excellent opinions. However, students will not be included in the election commission. Once the commission is formed, implementing student suggestions will be among its responsibilities.” Meanwhile, the Ducsu constitution and the code of conduct for the election have been finalised. Key Provisions of the Code of Conduct: ·         No rallies or processions are allowed during the collection and submission of nomination papers. ·         Candidates must not be accompanied by more than five supporters when collecting or submitting nomination forms. ·         No individual, group, or student organisation may obstruct another candidate during nomination submission or withdrawal. ·         Use of vehicles for processions or transporting voters is prohibited, although rickshaws and bicycles may be used to reach polling centres. ·         Distribution of drinks, food, gifts, or tips to voters is strictly forbidden during the campaign and on the election day. ·         Campaigning is permitted from the publication of the final candidate list until 24 hours before the election day, between 10:00 am and 11:00 pm only. ·         Microphone use is prohibited after 10:00 pm. DU students submit memorandum demanding DUCSU election roadmap ·         Only Ducsu and hall union voters and candidates may campaign; no external campaigning is allowed within the campus. ·         Permission must be obtained at least 24 hours in advance for holding any meetings or gatherings. ·         Each candidate or group may hold one projection meeting in each hall and a maximum of three across the university. ·         Meetings, gatherings, or processions are restricted to locations approved by the chief returning officer or returning officers. Violations of the code of conduct may result in cancellation of candidacy and a fine of Tk 20,000. Besides, offenders may face expulsion or other penalties under applicable university or state laws. Reforms in the Ducsu Constitution: ·         This new Ducsu constitution includes notable reforms: ·         The mass uprising of 2024 has been formally recognised. ·         Two new sub-sections have been added under Section 2: ·         2(b): To establish the spirit of the July 2024 uprising against all forms of discrimination and fascism, and uphold the legacy of democratic movements in Bangladesh’s history. ·         2(c): To strive for excellence in students’ academic and co-curricular pursuits. The post of Secretary, Struggle for Independence and Liberation War Affairs has been restructured as Secretary, Liberation War and Democratic Movements. The roles of Cultural Secretary and Literature Secretary have been merged into a single position—Secretary, Culture and Literature. The Treasurer will be nominated by the Vice-Chancellor from among the university’s professors, in consultation with the union’s executive committee. Any objections regarding the election must be submitted to the president within three clear days of the results’ publication. The president’s decision will be final. DU Chhatra Shibir demands DUCSU election roadmap announcement by Jan However, the previous clause stating, “No action will lie against this decision in any court of law,” has now been removed.    

Students of Barishal University (BU) on Monday night began an indefinite hunger strike demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor Professor Sucharita Sharmin, against whom they were already embroiled in a movement stretching back over four weeks. Till now, the students had organised sit-ins on campus, torch processions on the Dhaka-Kuakata highway, blockades, and press briefings, besides locking the Vice Chancellor’s residence, to press home their demand.  Today's move raises the stakes of the movement, although the demand remains the same. The announcement of the wildcat hunger strike came during an emergency press briefing where student leader Sujoy Shuvo declared Dr. Sharmin ‘unwanted’ on campus. The students started the strike at 9:30pm. Apparently the VC has not communicated with students at any point during their 28-day-long protest, instead choosing to address the situation via a Facebook livestream recently. “We reject this fascist leadership],” Shuvo said. Barishal University students begin academic shutdown

The University Grants Commission (UGC) will soon take a decision on allowing private universities to introduce PhD programmes, UGC Chairman Professor Dr SMA Faiz said on Sunday. He made the remarks while speaking at a stakeholder consultation on the Private University Act 2010 (Amended 2024) held at the UGC auditorium. Dr Faiz said only those private universities that meet the required academic and infrastructural standards would be permitted to offer PhD programmes. Highlighting the role of universities in society, he said they are not isolated from its challenges and therefore have a responsibility to conduct research aimed at solving pressing social issues. He also urged university authorities to be mindful of students’ changing expectations and mental well-being in the context of current social and political dynamics, and to take proactive steps in addressing these concerns. Govt to initiate PhD programme in nursing: UGC chairman Clarifying the Commission’s role, he said, “The Commission does not view itself as a regulatory authority but rather as a facilitator for enhancing the quality of higher education and research.” He assured that all constructive recommendations made during the meeting would be given due consideration. The event was chaired by Dr Md Sultan Mahmud Bhuiyan, Director of UGC’s Private University Division, while Prof Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Acting Member in charge of the division, attended as special guest. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan, Rajshahi University VC Dr Saleh Hasan Nakib, Jagannath University VC Prof Dr Rezaul Karim, North South University VC Prof Dr Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, East West University VC Prof Dr Shams Rahman, National University VC Prof Mohammad Nurul Islam, Brac University Dean Prof Dr Yusuf Haider, and Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Daffodil International University Dr Mohammad Sabur Khan, among others, also joined the consultation. Nuri Shahreen Islam, Senior Assistant Director of the Private University Division, conducted the programme.

Students at Barishal University have started academic shutdown on Monday demanding the removal of Vice-Chancellor Dr Shuchita Sharmin. The announcement came on Sunday night during a torch procession on the campus and surrounding areas, marking the 26th day of the ongoing protest. The students declared that academic activities will remain suspended until the VC is removed from office. Sujoy Shuvo, a student of the university, said letters were sent to all departments requesting cooperation from teachers who have expressed solidarity with the movement. He added that while regular classes and administrative activities would be suspended pre-scheduled semester examinations and emergency services would continue during the shutdown. Met office issues lightning alert in 21 dists Dr Unmesh Roy, Head of the Bangla Department, confirmed receiving the students’ letter. “We have already expressed our solidarity with the movement. We fully support the students.” The protesting students alleged that VC could not undertake any development initiatives during her tenure but filed cases against students and facilitated the return of the banned Chhatra League on the campus. They also blamed her negligence for the death of a female student who died without receiving proper medical care. A large number of students participated in Sunday night’s torch procession, chanting anti-VC slogans and vowing to bar Dr Sharmin from entering the campus.  

The government is set to take legal action against 18 private universities for their failure to relocate to their permanent campuses, despite operating for over 12 years and receiving multiple deadline extensions. The Ministry of Education has recently instructed the University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman to take action against these universities for not complying with the requirement under the Private University Act, 2010. Rabindra University will be developed like Biswa Bharati: Planning Adviser UGC Member Professor Dr Mohammad Anwar Hossen said, “These 18 universities have crossed the permitted time limits, some have taken 12, 15, even 20 years but still haven't shifted to their permanent campuses despite repeated reminders,” he said. “We wrote to the Ministry of Education three months ago regarding what action can be taken. In response, the ministry has directed us to take action against 16 universities, but the number under scrutiny will ultimately be 18,” he added. According to sources at the ministry, the Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Division wrote to the UGC chairman stating that the provisional approval period for 16 private universities has expired, yet they continue to operate without transferring academic activities to permanent campuses. The letter cited Section 12(1) of the Private University Act, 2010, as the legal basis for action, they said. When asked about the nature of action being considered, Dr Anwar Hossen said, “This will be decided in our upcoming monthly meeting, led by the UGC Chairman. Measures could include revoking approvals among other options.” BU students lock admin offices demanding VC’s removal He added that the deadline set earlier for moving to permanent campuses passed long ago, and even with fresh deadlines the universities may need another three to four years to complete the transition. “Some universities have taken over a decade—12, 15, or 20 years—and still haven’t shifted. We will consider a range of responses in the meeting, from warnings to granting additional time based on individual circumstances,” he said. Dr Anwar said among the 117 private universities currently operating in the country a large number still do not have permanent campuses. “Even so, many of them are still being given time,” he said. In January 2023, the UGC had issued letters to 18 universities asking them to move to permanent campuses by December 31 of that year. As they failed to comply with the directive student admissions were suspended at four universities, temporary campus admissions were halted at two others and the remaining 12 were given extended timeframes. Of the 18 universities under scrutiny, nine are located in Dhaka. Those are University of Development Alternative (Satmasjid Road), Stamford University Bangladesh (Siddheshwari), Millennium University (Rajarbagh), People’s University of Bangladesh (Mohammadpur), Presidency University (Gulshan), Primeasia University (Banani), ASA University Bangladesh (Shyamoli), Sonargaon University (Panthapath) and Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (Mirpur). The other universities are North East University Bangladesh (Sylhet), Isha Khan International University (Kishoreganj), North Western University (Khulna), Feni University (Feni), Port City International University (Chattogram), Chittagong Independent University (Chattogram) and Britannia University (Cumilla). In a hurried move, Sonargaon University recently inaugurated an incomplete permanent campus at Khilgaon’s Ward 75 in the capital last Saturday. KU authorities decide to expel student who attacked teacher; committee formed According to the Private University Act, 2010, universities must shift to permanent campuses within seven years of establishment with a five-year extension allowed. Failure to do so may result in penalties, including suspension of student enrollment.    

The government plans to transform Rabindra University into a world class one like Shanti Niketon or Bishwa Bharati. Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud said this on Wednesday while briefing reporters after the regular Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) at the NEC Conference Room in the city’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. ECNEC Chairperson and Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus presided over the meeting. The planning adviser said that the chief adviser has directed the authorities concerned to take effective steps as a project on the university' was placed at the meeting. The meeting sent back the projecy and asked the relevant authorities to prepare a new plan for the University. Rabindra University is the 40th public university in Bangladesh. The university is named after the Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore. The university is located in Shahjadpur Upazila of Sirajganj district, which is famous for the poet's memory. On July 26, 2016, the 'Rabindra University, Bangladesh Act 2016' was passed by the National Parliament. In 2018, the academic activities of the university started in the academic year 2017-2018 with 113 students in the undergraduate (honours) class in three departments under two faculties. Currently, teaching is going on in five departments under four faculties at Rabindra University. The faculties and departments are- A. Faculty of Arts: 1. Bengali, B. Faculty of Social Sciences: 2. Sociology; 3. Economics; c. Faculty of Business Education: 4. Management; and d. Faculty of Music and Dance: 5. Music. The number of degrees awarded is eight- 1. BA (Hons), 2. BSS (Hons), 3. BBA 4. BMU 5. MA 6. MSS 7. MBA and 8. MMUS. It has been decided to introduce MPhil and Ph.D degrees under various faculties of the university. The total number of students at Rabindra University is more than 2000. Students of various academic years are studying at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels in the departments of Bengali, Sociology, Economics, Management and Music. At present, the total number of teachers in the university is 34, officials are 49 and the number of employees is 106. The academic activities of the university and the central library are being conducted by setting up temporary campuses in the buildings of three higher educational institutions in Shahjadpur Upazila. The process of acquiring the proposed site and constructing the permanent campus of Rabindra University on 225 acres of land of Rabindranath Tagore's estate, surrounded by natural beauty at the confluence of three rivers, at a place called Buripotajia, near Shahjadpur Upazila town of Sirajganj district, was underway. Adviser Mahmud said that there are so many universities in different districts across the country. “But I do not know the future of these universities, we are not preparing any new plan for infrastructural development of these universities,” he said. He also mentioned that the interim government is not also encouraging these universities to increase their students and teachers. The adviser said that as the Rabindra University is a different one, it will not be a regular local university. “There will be no profit by that move,” he added. He said that the university authority has prepared a mega plan of 500 acres of land for the University. “But we cut that to 100 acres of land, there will be three water reservoirs and two rivers, the Vice-Chancellor of the university had told me,” he said. He also said that the VC also apprised him that after completing the project it would be a very good place for the tourists also. “There is a Rabindra Museum in there which will be linked with the university,” he said. The planning adviser said that for all these matters there should a very good architectural plan and it should be transformed in to a world standard good university.

Students of Barishal Nursing College on Wednesday morning started an indefinite ‘complete shutdown’ to press home their six-point demand. They also staged protests seeking justice over an alleged attack on them by teachers and postgraduates. The protest began at 9am in front of the college with the protesters gathering with placards and slogans. Earlier on Tuesday morning, the protesting students were allegedly barred by teachers from holding a scheduled programme on the campus that left four students injured. Nursing College student commits ‘suicide’ in Barishal The students have been carrying out movements on six point demands including teachers recruitment following the policies of Dhaka University and the University Grants Commission (UGC). The students warned that the ‘complete shutdown’ will continue until their demands are met. However, the teachers denied the allegation. A tense situation was prevailing on the college campus.