Barishal University shutdown disrupts academic activities for 3rd day

Academic activities at Barishal University remained suspended for the third consecutive day on Wednesday as teachers continued their complete “shutdown” programme, demanding the resignation of the Vice-Chancellor and the approval of promotions.

Due to the ongoing protest, all classes and examinations were halted, while administrative operations also came to a standstill, effectively paralysing campus activities.

Students have expressed concern over the disruption, saying the prolonged suspension of classes and exams is affecting their studies. 

They have also urged authorities to resolve the crisis quickly.

The protesting teachers claimed that recruitment and promotion processes at the university have long been stalled, causing administrative and academic difficulties.

Vice-Chancellor Dr Toufik Alam said there was no scope to grant promotions outside the regulations set by the University Grants Commission (UGC). 

He added that the teachers were not accepting the existing rules and were instead demanding promotions under previous regulations, which, he said, fall outside his jurisdiction. 

Efforts are ongoing to bring the situation under control, he added.

Meanwhile, the university is set to begin its Eid vacation from Thursday, with the campus expected to reopen in the first week of next month.

However, the protesting teachers have warned that the shutdown will continue after the holidays if their demands are not met.

SH