JU students’ union stages human chain against online education decision

Leaders and activists of Bangladesh Students’ Union at Jahangirnagar University (JU) formed a human chain on Thursday, protesting the government’s decision to shift nationwide education to online platforms amid the ongoing energy crisis.

The programme was held at 4:30 PM at Central Shaheed Minar on the university campus, where members of the organization gathered to express their concerns.

Adri Ankur, president of JU unit of Bangladesh Students’ Union, recalled the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that online education led to significant learning losses among students. 

He also criticized the government for failing to address the crisis through effective diplomatic and political measures, warning that such decisions could jeopardize the educational future of students, particularly those in rural areas.

Imran Hossain Shuvo, the organization’s education and research secretary, said that while the global crisis has worsened Bangladesh’s fuel shortage, no effective plan has been presented in Parliament to tackle the issue. 

He urged the authorities to reconsider the decision, stressing the importance of safeguarding students’ futures and calling for a clear and practical strategy to address the energy crisis.

Among others present at the programme were General Secretary Faizan Ahmed Arko, organizer Anika Tabassum Farabi and Siam Mahmud.

JJ/SH