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Students of Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University (JKKNIU) staged a mass gathering and rally on Sunday (24 August), demanding the immediate formation of a student union.
Over hundred students participated in the demonstration on campus, chanting slogans and covering walls with graffiti to reiterate their long-standing demand. The protesters accused the administration of repeatedly making promises but failing to take effective steps, which they said has left students frustrated and agitated.
Since the university’s establishment in 2006, no student union has been formed in nearly two decades. During last year’s July–August movement, students pressed for a constitution and an election roadmap. Although the administration pledged action at the time, one year has passed without implementation, fueling further resentment among students.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam said, “We are, in principle, in favor of forming the student union. However, approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Ministry is required. We are currently in that process. A special committee has already been formed, and we are trying to prepare a draft within the next week. Hopefully, we will see clear progress very soon.”
Student Advisor Dr. Ashraful Alam said, “The students’ demand is legitimate, and the administration is also positive about it. However, elections cannot be held without a clear policy framework. That is why the process is taking some time. We want the policy to be finalized as quickly as possible so that elections can be held accordingly.”
Proctor Dr. Md. Mahbubur Rahman said, “The students’ movement is logical, and they have shown great patience. The administration also wants the student union to be formed soon. But final approval from the UGC and the university’s syndicate is essential. Once that process is completed, we will be able to proceed toward elections.”
Acting Registrar Professor Dr. Mizanur Rahman said, “Since there is no specific policy regarding the student union, a special committee is working on it. Once we receive the report, the roadmap and election process will be announced. Our goal is to finalize an effective process quickly. We hope directives on this matter will be issued soon.”
Students believe that the formation of a student union would help establish a democratic culture on campus while ensuring transparency and accountability.
Zenas Bhowmik, a former student of the Department of Law and Justice, said, “Due to the absence of a student union, students are falling victim to administrative disorder. For a long time, they have faced various problems but have had no legal framework to raise their issues or seek solutions. Hence, forming a student union is absolutely necessary to restore a democratic environment.”
Aishwarya Sarkar, a student of the Department of Folklore, issued a warning, saying, “The student union is the most powerful tool for realizing students’ demands. We have repeatedly raised our voices, but no effective initiative has been taken. If the roadmap is not announced soon, we will build a larger movement. If necessary, we are prepared to go on hunger strike.”
রোববার, ০৭ সেপ্টেম্বর ২০২৫
Published : ২৪ আগস্ট ২০২৫
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