United News of Bangladesh

The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, scheduled to be held on September 9 after nearly six years, is sparking intense enthusiasm among general students, students affiliated with political organizations, voters as nominations have already begun to be distributed, and the university administration are also working in full swing. However, the student wing of the BNP, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), has not yet finalized its decision on who will be the candidates from their panel as discussions with the party’s top organizational leader, Tarique Rahman, are still ongoing. Mollik Wasi Uddin Tami, the office secretary of the DU JCD, says, “No decision has been made yet. Talks are underway on how we will participate. We are reviewing circumstances. The proper environment necessary for a transparent DUCSU election is questionable considering the violent reaction after forming our hall convening committees. Otherwise, we would have directly formed a panel. If the hall level elections are held, all the organizations must be given space to carry-out organizational activities freely.” Mohiuddin Khan, the general secretary of the DU Islami Chhatra Shibir, has confirmed that they are forming a panel. He says, “We are talking about DUCSU from the beginning as an organisation. The formal election process has started and the atmosphere of the campus is currently conducive, as the voters and candidates are moving around in a festive mood.” All the leftist organisations are also working to form panels. Salman Siddiqui, president of the Socialist Chhatra Front, says that their panel will include leftist student organizations, social and cultural groups, and those who actively participated in past democratic movements and the July uprising. DUCSU draft voter list published; over 39,000 eligible to vote He says, “Although the administration is taking visible steps after a year and more, yet it is a matter of hope.” From the Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangha (BAGCHAS), Abdul Qader will contest for VP and Abu Baker Majumdar for general secretary. Umama Fatema, former coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement and former leader of the Chhatra Federation, is also working to form an independent panel. Another independent panel is being formed under Jamaluddin Muhammad Khalid, the convener of Independent Bangladesh Students Council, along with Mahin Sarker, joint member-secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP). Bangladesh Chhatra Adhikar Parishad is forming a panel under its president Bin Yamin Molla, who will contest for the VP position with the banner of “DUCSU for Change”. Until now, 61 candidates have collected nomination papers, including 6 women. 14 candidates have collected nominations for the VP position of which 13 have already been submitted. Overdue Ducsu elections on Sept 9, schedule announced Nomination paper distribution will be continued until August 18, and submission will be closed at 3 pm on August 19. Preliminary candidate lists will be published on August 21, and the final lists on August 26. The last day of the withdrawal of nominations is August 25.

A group of students staged a protest at Dhaka University on Saturday accusing several cultural and media personalities of promoting ‘cultural fascism’ after they posted tributes to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on social media marking 15 August. The protest began around 5 pm near the Raju Sculpture and later moved to the ‘Ghrina Chattar’ area of TSC. During the demonstration, students were seen hurling shoes at photographs of the named celebrities, and also at an image of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman displayed on a pillar of the Dhaka Metrorail infrastructure. The protestors, who introduced themselves as general students, displayed posters and chanted slogans calling for the boycott of several well-known figures from the entertainment and media industry. Committee formed to draft framework for student politics at Dhaka University Among those named were cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, singer Lincoln (of the band Artcell), actors Siam Ahmed, Meher Afroz Shaon, Nazifa Tushi, Saju Khadem, Mumtaheena Toya, Farabi Hafiz, Arosh Khan, Irfan Sajjad, film actor Shakib Khan, and actress Mehezabien Chowdhury, among others. Participants accused the figures of supporting what they referred to as "Mujibism" and claimed these personalities were helping to re-establish an ideological agenda tied to the previous government. Protester Md. Samiul Haque, a second-year MBBS student at Dhaka Medical College, said for the past 16 years, the country has suffered under political, economic, and cultural fascism driven by Mujibism and Bakshali ideology. Following the July mass uprising, we believe Bangladesh has been freed from this regime. But now, certain cultural figures are attempting to revive that same fascism through their platforms. We reject and resist this.” The protesters labelled them as "cultural fascists" and vowed to boycott them.

The longstanding affiliation of seven government colleges with the University of Dhaka has officially come to an end as all administrative, academic, and financial responsibilities have been formally transferred to the authorities of the proposed Dhaka Central University. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan handed over all responsibilities and student information—including photographs and admission test fees for the 2024–25 academic year applicants—to Professor AKM Elias, the interim administrator of the proposed Dhaka Central University on Thursday, according to the university’s public relations office. With this formal handover, the university administration announced the completion of the separation of the seven colleges from Dhaka University. DU VC Prof Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan expressed his sincere gratitude to all involved in the smooth and dignified separation process. He also extended his best wishes for the future success of the proposed Dhaka Central University. The event was attended by Pro-VC (Administration) Prof Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha, Pro-VC(Education) Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed, Treasurer Prof Dr M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Dean of the Faculty of Science Professor Dr Abdus Salam, Proctor Associate Prof Saifuddin Ahmed, Acting Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed, and the Convener of the Online Admission Committee, along with officials from the relevant departments and the principals of the respective colleges.

All the independent Ebtedayee  Madrashas will be brought under the MPO system within the next week, said Education Ministry's Technical and Madrasha Division secretary KM Kabirul Islam on Wednesday. He said this at a meeting with the Education Reporters Association Bangladesh (ERAB) at the Secretariat. The secretary said the staffing structure and MPO policy for private madrashas  were submitted to the Chief Adviser (CA) and would be sent to the Finance Ministry for approval. Independent Ebtedayee Madrasa teachers threaten burial shrouds protest for nationalisation delay He also said that the institutions recognised before 2006 that were previously excluded in a discriminatory manner by the previous government would be prioritized. He said no new educational institution had been included in the MPO since 2022. The MPO summary was sent to the CA and should be finalised by tomorrow or the next week, he added. He also said 2000 madrashas will get new buildings as 6,389 madrasas have not received any new building since 2006. ERAB President Faruk Hossain, General Secretary Solaiman Salman and other members were present at the meeting.

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.