Education
JU fires Johnny following prolonged probe into allegations of sexual harassment
In a significant development, the Jahangirnagar University administration has terminated the employment of assistant professor Mahmudur Rahman Johnny of the Department of Public Health and Informatics.
Following the conclusion of a prolonged investigation into the allegations, all of which had a sexual harassment component, while some were exacerbated by academic misconduct, the decision was announced on Tuesday night during a syndicate meeting of the university, according to University Registrar Abu Hasan.
Committee formed to further probe sexual harassment allegations against JU teacher
Mahmudur Rahman Johnny, a former Chhatra League leader who even led the JU campus unit of the ruling party student front sought a career in academia, was facing multiple accusations of sexual harassment, which were substantiated by the findings of a structured committee report.
Prior to the conclusion of the trial, there were visible signs of unrest among the students and teachers due to the absence of Vice-Chancellor Nurul Alam Siddique. A committee member, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Johnny had admitted to all allegations of sexual harassment in a written statement. The committee members were convinced of his guilt, leading to his dismissal from the university.
Rape in JU campus: accused students' certificates revoked
The decision to take disciplinary action against Johnny in the syndicate meeting has brought relief to the students and faculty who were disturbed by the prolonged trial. Activists involved in the movement against sexual harassment believe that the recent incidents have increased pressure on the university administration to address such issues seriously.
Alif Mahmud, convenor of the JU Chhatra Union, commented on the situation, stating, "Despite being accused of ethical misconduct, Johnny has openly admitted to his involvement, and the current Vice-Chancellor, Nurul Alam, continues to hold the chair with his support. If he is judged, he will reveal four to five more faces, including the Vice-Chancellor. We believe this is why the Vice-Chancellor is afraid to conduct the trial."
Anisa Parveen Jolly, a professor in the History Department, expressed optimism that such incidents of sexual harassment would decrease in the future, creating a safer environment for both students and faculty.
Prof. Jolly stated, "Johnny has violated the sanctity of the classroom, despite being a part of the Environmental Science department. He has roamed the campus with influential teachers from the administration. They have turned the campus into a place where perpetrators, miscreants, and murderers are safe."
Husband held captive, wife raped on JU campus
Johnny, a member of the 36th batch of the Department of Environmental Science, served as the president of the JU branch of the Bangladesh Chhatra League in 2012.
In 2018, he was appointed as a lecturer in the Department of Public Health and Informatics, eventually rising to the position of Assistant Professor. Since his appointment, he faced multiple allegations of "unethical" relationships with several female students.
On November 21, 2022, an intimate photo (selfie) of Johnny and a lecturer appointed in the same department, was put up on posters across the sprawling JU campus.At the same time, the audio of an intimate conversation with a student of Batch #43, who had applied for a teaching post at the department, came to light, where Johnny forced the victim to have an abortion. Besides, pictures and information of “immoral” relations between Johnny and several BCL leaders and “indecent” chats came to light.
In view of this, a section of teachers and students protested demanding proper action against Johnny. Later, on December 8, 2022, a preliminary investigation committee was formed to probe Johnny for allegedly having immoral relations with multiple students. The committee ordered the investigation report by January 31 this year. At that time, Johnny was forced to leave the post of assistant proctor of the university. Still the authorities seemed too indifferent to this plight suffered by - proportionately - a small section of the female student body.
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ISD Students mark International Mother Language Day with multilingual Ekushey song
International School Dhaka (ISD) has marked International Mother Language Day by celebrating the importance of multiculturalism in Bangladesh.
Paying tribute to language diversity around the world, ISD held a special assembly where a group of Bangladeshi students sang ‘Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano Ekushey February’. Six international students then sang the song in their respective mother tongues of English, French, Spanish, Dutch, Hindi, and Afrikaans.
Other students recited poems and performed songs and dances to celebrate the diverse culture of ISD’s vibrant community and joined teachers and officials to place floral wreaths at the school’s Shaheed Minar.
Steve Calland-Scoble, ISD’s director, said, “The United Nations estimates that 40% of the global population currently lacks access to education in their native language. This figure exceeds 90% in certain regions.”
Ishrat Jahan Shukhi, Head of Bengali Department, said, “Our International Mother Language Assembly was a joyous opportunity to celebrate the multitude of languages and cultural expressions within our school community.”
“This perfectly demonstrates our commitment to honoring linguistic diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is valued and respected," she added.
'Red Alert': Canadian University of Bangladesh debuts book on Non-Communicable Diseases
The joint research effort between Canadian University of Bangladesh and University of Manitoba has resulted in the creation of a groundbreaking book titled "Red Alert", that was released on Monday at a city hotel.
The book is focused on non-communicable diseases. It is the first book of its kind written for health-conscious individuals in Bangladesh.
State Minister for Information and Broadcast Professor Mohammad Ali Arafat was present as the chief guest in the unveiling ceremony while Dr. Chowdhury Nafeez Sarafat, founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Canadian University of Bangladesh presided over.
The Minister of Information and Broadcasting highlighted the dual advantages outlined in the Red Alert book during his address.
He emphasized its potential for delivering both health benefits and accurate insights into products, such as olive oil alternatives.
Expressing confidence, he envisioned the Red Alert book as a representation of Brand Bangladesh in the future. Furthermore, he extended gratitude to all involved in its publication and assured continued government support for future research endeavors of this nature.
The event highlighted CUB's commitment to pioneering research in the private university sector of Bangladesh. Dr. Chowdhury Nafeez Sarafat emphasized CUB's unique milestone with the publication of "Red Alert."
He also mentioned that Canadian University of Bangladesh is expanding its global presence by launching educational programs at its Ontario Campus in Canada later this year, furthering its mission of fostering international education and research collaboration.
Dr. Rita Colwell, a renowned professor at the University of Maryland, USA, Debra Boyce, Senior Trade Commissioner of the Canadian High Commission, and Dr. Mesbahuddin Ahmed, Chairman of the Bangladesh Accreditation Council, shared insights during the event.
The editing of "Red Alert" was a collaborative effort led by Professor Dr. Gias U Ahsan, the Vice-Chancellor (Acting) of CUB, along with Dr. C. Emdad Haque of the University of Manitoba, Canada, and Professor M. Anisul Islam of North South University.
Dr. Gias U Ahsan expressed confidence that "Red Alert" would be well-received by health-conscious individuals and become an essential resource.
The publication ceremony was jointly organized by the Canadian University of Bangladesh, University of Manitoba, and CNRS.
The book "Red Alert" will be available at Stall Number 895 of Ekushey Boimela from Tuesday (20th Feb. 2024).It's the Canadian University of Bangladesh stall at the book fair.
UCSI University Bangladesh hosts 'Boshonto Boron' festival
The Cultural Club of UCSI University Bangladesh branch campus hosted a “Boshonto Boron” festival on its campus in Dhaka’s Banani.
The event showcased the cultural diversity and talent of the university’s students, according to a press release on Monday.
The university's Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Dato Ir Mohd Saleh Jaafar, was present as the chief guest where board Senior Vice President Ariful Bari Mojumder, Vice President Aniza Parveen, Director Sherin Sultana, and Director Ahmed Suman Subhan, among others, were also present, it said.
The Pro VC expressed his admiration for the students’ dedication to promoting cultural exchange and fostering a sense of unity within the campus community.
The “Boshonto Boron” event featured captivating performances by students, including soulful songs and mesmerizing dance sequences. The students’ talents were on full display, leaving the audience enthralled and impressed, the release said.
The success of the event underscored the commitment of UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus to providing a holistic education that goes beyond academic excellence, embracing cultural and artistic endeavours that contribute to the overall development of its students, it added.
Scholastica student wins global coding competition
Adib Ahnaf Chowdhury, a 14-year-old student from Scholastica School in Mirpur, Bangladesh, has achieved a remarkable feat by securing the top position in the World Game Coding Competition 2024 organized by the International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC) recently.
His project, titled ‘Planes!’ was created using Scratch 3.0 Language. Among 917 competitors from 787 schools across 52 countries, Adib clinched the top position in the age group of 13 to 14, said a media release.
The IKCC, initiated by the Romanian organisation 'Asociatia SASORYCODE', stands as one of the largest Scratch coding competitions globally. Children from diverse backgrounds participate by submitting their projects created in Scratch, according to it.
Throughout the year, IKCC hosts competitions on various themes, aiming to enhance children's programming skills through game development, storytelling, or animation creation, it reads.
This platform serves as a catalyst for nurturing creativity and unleashing the imagination of young minds worldwide.
International conference for achieving SDGs starts at BAU
Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU)’s Department of Fisheries iss organizing a two-day international conference titled ‘Smart Aquaculture and Fishing in Achieving SDGs’ to emphasize the importance of fisheries in achieving sustainable development goals.
The inauguration of the third biennial international conference of the Fisheries Society of Bangladesh (FSB) took place at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 17th, in the Syed Nazrul Islam Conference Hall of the university.
Commercially, finfish, shellfish, and marine algae mariculture play vital roles in the blue economy. Recently, Bangladesh has witnessed remarkable success in fish production autonomously said Rear Admiral (Retd.) Md. Khurshed Alam, BN Honorable Secretary (Maritime Affairs Unit), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh, attended the event as the chief guest.
He mentioned that Bangladesh now ranks third globally in fish production and fifth in global aquaculture methods. If the vast fisheries resources are managed scientifically, it will enrich the country's blue economy.
In the opening ceremony, Prof. Dr. Md. Samchul Alam, president of FSB, chaired the conference. The chief patron was Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Emdadul Haque Chowdhury. Special guests were Professor Dr. Md Anwarul Islam, former Vice-Chancellor, prof. Dr. A. K. M. Nowsad Alam, Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries, Mr. Sayeed Mahmood Belal Haider, chairman, Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation, Mr. Md Nazrul Islam, Director, Department of Fisheries, Dr. Mohosena Begum Tonu, Director, Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Dr. Nathu Ram Sarker, Executive Director, Krishi Gobeshona Foundation(KGF). About 300 domestic and foreign scientists participated in the conference.
Prof. Dr. Emdadul Haque Chowdhury said, falling behind in utilizing technology in agriculture will hinder the country's development. Smart farmers need to be trained alongside smart graduates to enable the natural development of agriculture.
He further noted that despite Bangladesh being self-sufficient in food, there remains a deficit in animal protein demand. Environmental pollution can be reduced through increased protein production from fish. Graduates in fisheries can play a significant role in this sector.
Education Minister urges CU authorities to take action over clashes on campus
Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Howfel has urged the Chittagong University (CU) authorities to take stern action against those responsible for the ongoing clashes between two groups of students.
The minister spoke to CU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Shireen Akhter on Saturday and expressed his deep concern over the recent clashes on campus.
CU teacher sacked for attempting to rape student
He asked the VC to take immediate action to identify and punish the perpetrators of the clashes.
Ensure a safe and secure campus for all students by driving out outsiders from the university dormitories.
The minister suggested the CU administration to work with the university teachers and law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and discipline on the campus.
Nowfel warned that no one will be spared, regardless of their political affiliation.
10 injured in factional clash within CU Chhatra League
The VC called a meeting of the university's law and order committee for Sunday morning to discuss the situation.
A series of clashes between two factions of Chhatra League since Wednesday have raised concerns about the safety and security of students on the campus.
CU teacher sacked for attempting to rape student
A teacher of Chittagong University (CU), Prof Mahbubul Matin, was sacked from his post over attempt to rape a student of the university.
The CU took the decision at the 548th special syndicate meeting on Friday night, said Mohammad Ali, a member of the syndicate.
“The two committees, formed to investigate into the allegation of sexual harassment, found evidence against Prof Matin, and members of the Syndicate recommended to sack him,” said Mohammad Ali.
10 injured in factional clash within CU Chhatra League
A female student of the university’s Chemistry Department brought an allegation against Prof Matin of sexually harassing her during conducting thesis on January 31.
The students of the university later staged demonstration and sit-in programme demanding removal of the teacher.
Two Chittagong University proctors quit
The student also submitted a written complaint to the proctor. According to the complaint, Prof Matin took her to his room in the name of academic assistance and tried to rape her.
Later, the authorities concerned formed two probe bodies to look into the allegation.
IHSB hosts thrilling Math Olympiad, Biochemistry Olympiad, and STEM Fest
International Hope School Bangladesh (IHSB) hosted a riveting Math Olympiad, Biochemistry Olympiad, and STEM Fest on Friday.
Organized by student-governed clubs, these events showcased the dedication and talent of students from various educational backgrounds.
The Math Olympiad, one of the highlights of the two-day extravaganza, attracted an impressive cohort of 900 participants. With challenges designed to test mathematical acumen and problem-solving skills, contestants engaged in intense competition, striving to outshine their peers and claim top honors. From complex equations to intricate geometric puzzles, the Math Olympiad pushed participants to their intellectual limits, fostering a spirit of healthy competition and academic excellence.
Simultaneously, the Biochemistry Olympiad, another cornerstone of the event, drew nearly 500 aspiring scientists and researchers. Participants delved into the fascinating world of biochemical phenomena, exploring topics ranging from enzymatic reactions to molecular structures. Through a series of rigorous assessments and practical tasks, competitors demonstrated their understanding of biochemical principles, showcasing their potential as future leaders in the field of life sciences.
Complementing the Olympiads was the IHSB STEM Fest, a vibrant celebration of innovation and creativity. Featuring a diverse array of 100 projects and miniature metro-rail, the fest provided a platform for students to showcase their scientific discoveries, technological innovations, and engineering marvels. From robotics demonstrations to sustainable energy solutions, each project reflected the passion and ingenuity of its creators, inspiring attendees and judges alike.
"We are thrilled to see such overwhelming participation and enthusiasm for our Math Olympiad, Biochemistry Olympiad, and STEM Fest," remarked Asiful Haque, president of the IHSB STEM Club.
"These events not only encourage academic excellence but also foster collaboration, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. We are immensely proud of all the participants and commend them for their dedication and hard work."
The success of the Math Olympiad, Biochemistry Olympiad, and STEM Fest underscores the commitment of IHSB to nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders. By providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences and competitive challenges, the school empowers them to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society.
10 injured in factional clash within CU Chhatra League
At least ten people, including two police officers, were injured in clashes between two factions within the Chittagong University (CU) unit of the ruling party student front, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) on Friday.
The latest clashes took place this afternoon in front of the university’s Shahjalal and Shah Amanat halls.
It's a continuation of the same clash that started on Wednesday, over the trivial matter of sitting at a tea stall.
Contacted, Shimul Biswas, former vice-president of Chittagong University BCL, said "The clashes started on Wednesday and then escalated between two hall-based groups. Both sides are blaming each other.”
The university's Proctor Nurul Azim Sikder said police officers were deployed between the two dormitories, and added action will be taken after investigating the incident.
Apart from the 10 today, earlier at least 15 BCL leaders and activists were injured over the first two days.