Students to stage ‘long march’ on Monday to push for Dhaka Central University ordinance

Students from Dhaka’s seven government colleges have announced a “long march” to the education ministry for Monday, demanding that the government swiftly issue the Dhaka Central University Ordinance to formally establish their proposed new university.

The move comes amid frustration over what student leaders describe as repeated delays in finalising the ordinance, despite consultations with stakeholders.

The students plan to begin the march at 10am from their respective campuses and converge near the education ministry on Abdul Gani Road.

“We will march from our campuses towards the education ministry building,” said Abir Mahmud Robin, a student of Dhaka College and organiser of the movement. “Students from nearby colleges may also join to form larger processions.”

The seven government colleges involved are Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, Government Shaheed Suhrawardy College, Kabi Nazrul Government College, Begum Badrunnesa Government Women’s College, Mirpur Government Bangla College, and Government Titumir College.

The interim government began the process of forming a new university after cancelling the colleges’ affiliation with the Dhaka University following student protests.

The education ministry published a draft of the proposed Dhaka Central University Act 2025 on Sept 24, outlining the university’s academic and administrative framework, and invited feedback from stakeholders until Oct 9.

In a statement sent to the media, Md Naim Howlader, a student representative, said: “There has been debate over the draft act, but our demand now is only for the ordinance. Despite promises of a quick resolution, we’ve seen continued delays. We will no longer accept any further postponement.”

“Whatever the model, the ordinance must be updated and issued without delay. Our peaceful march will take place at 10am on Monday towards the education ministry.”