Promotion dispute triggers full shutdown at Barishal University; VC declared 'unwanted'
Two teachers, including the university proctor, have also stepped down from administrative posts as tensions escalate over unresolved promotion issues
Teachers at University of Barishal (BU) have announced a full academic and administrative shutdown from tomorrow (11 May) after declaring Vice-Chancellor (VC) Mohammad Toufiq Alam unwanted on campus over unresolved promotion-related disputes.
A section of the university teachers made the announcement through a statement issued this afternoon (10 May).
According to the statement, a tripartite meeting held on 30 April involving the vice-chancellor, syndicate members, Barishal divisional commissioner and deans had assured that all ongoing crises at the university would be resolved at the yesterday (9 May) syndicate meeting in line with existing laws, policies and practices.
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However, teachers alleged that the vice-chancellor suddenly called an emergency syndicate meeting at 11am yesterday through a notice issued around 10pm on 8 May without any agenda.
They claimed the meeting failed to address the ongoing crises in accordance with university policies and that the vice-chancellor ignored the opinions of most syndicate members and imposed his own decisions, pushing the university into a deeper crisis.
Following a general meeting of teachers held today, the vice-chancellor was declared unwanted on campus from tomorrow, while all ongoing classes, examinations, academic and administrative activities were placed under shutdown.
The teachers also decided to resign from various administrative responsibilities.
The development came as two teachers resigned from key administrative posts today.
Associate Professor Md Rahat Hossain Faisal submitted a resignation letter seeking relief from his duties as proctor, while Associate Professor Mohammad Tanvir Kaisar sought withdrawal from his position as a syndicate member. Both cited personal reasons in their applications submitted to the vice-chancellor.
Speaking to reporters, Rahat Hossain Faisal said teachers and officials had become frustrated with the vice-chancellor's activities.
"The vice-chancellor is depriving us of our rightful dues. Despite repeated requests regarding overall issues, no effective action was taken, which is why I decided to resign," he said.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Taufiq Alam confirmed receiving Tanvir Kaisar's resignation request from the syndicate but said he had not yet received the proctor's resignation letter formally, although Faisal had informed him verbally earlier in the day.
The dispute stems from a long-running movement by around 60 teachers demanding promotions. Teachers alleged that although the vice-chancellor repeatedly assured them of resolving the issue, no progress was made.
At the university's 94th syndicate meeting yesterday, it was decided that promotions would not be possible without the formulation of the required statutes, further escalating tensions on campus.
