Nahid urges protesting students to be patient, avoid public distress

The Adviser to the Ministry of Post, Telecommunications, and Information Technology Mohammad Nahid Islam, has called on the protesting students of Govt. Titumir College to be patient in their demand for the transformation of the college into a university. 

He also urged them to ensure their actions do not cause public inconvenience.  

In a statement on Monday (February 3), following a visit to the Saraswati Puja pavilion at Jagannath Hall in Dhaka University, he advised the students to exercise restraint in their protests, emphasizing that the current government is responsible and committed to the progress of education and educational institutions. 

He mentioned, �At this moment, it might not be possible to achieve everything they seek, but everyone must be mindful not to cause public suffering. I am hopeful that positive outcomes will come in due course.�  

Regarding the longstanding issues with the Seven Colleges of Dhaka, Nahid Islam acknowledged that the matter had become a complex issue over the years. He referred to a misguided decision made during the previous Awami League government, which negatively impacted the education of thousands of students. 

However, he reassured that the interim government is actively working on resolving the problems of the seven colleges and discussions are underway with all concerned institutions. He expressed hope for a positive resolution soon.  

Highlighting the sensitivity of student matters, he noted, �Students have the right to protest for their demands, as they did during the July Movement when people rallied on the streets. The support of the people is crucial in any movement. If there is a legitimate demand, we will make every effort to address it. However, in planning any protests, the potential for causing public distress must be considered.�