DU will face no problem if rules followed, says new VC Akhtaruzzaman

After his appointment as vice-chancellor of Dhaka University on a temporary basis, Prof Md Akhtaruzzaman has said the university's rules are well-delineated and there will be no problem if everyone abides by those rules.

Speaking to the reporters at the university on Tuesday, he emphasised taking the century-old institution forward by working properly and not taking many new initiatives.

The Islamic history professor has been pro-VC of the university for over a year. President Md Abdul Hamid appointed him VC on Monday.

Asked what challenges he will take up in improving the quality of education at the public university, he said. "Dhaka University is around 100 years old. There is no new challenge. There were many administrations previously, there is one now, and there will be many in the future."

"So there is nothing to blame them. Taking the time-honoured institution forward will be a good job," he added.

The former chairman of the Islamic history department and the arts faculty dean said, "Those working in the university for a long time know well where the problems are."

"This is a democratic institution. There are many organisations like senate, syndicate and academic council to take the decisions. The rules for a workplan in Dhaka University are so traditional and so organised that there is no reason for a new problem to surface," Prof Akhtaruzzaman said.

He said he would make the plan on running the university after taking charge as VC. "I am still the pro-vice chancellor. We will sit and decide after taking charge."  

He stressed upholding the university's dignity. He also met outgoing VC AAMS Arefin Siddique after returning from Eid-ul-Azha holidays.

"It was a courtesy call. We were together at a time. And I am still a pro-VC," he said.

Meanwhile, thirty-one members of the Senate have protested against his appointment, alleging it has been done in breach of law.

"I will first know about the matter. And, I will see to it after taking charge," he said on being asked about the allegation.

"We will have to be alert so that the honourable president's order will not be dishonoured or delayed," he added.

The leader of pro-Awami League teachers' Blue Panel also said, "The law running the university was made by the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. So we will have to keep in mind that we should respect the law while running the university."

Prof Akhtaruzzaman made vice-chancellor of Dhaka University on temporary basis