Teachers' Network demands end to restrictions to access Dhaka University campus

The members have discussed campus issues, including DUCSU and Teachers' Association elections with the vice-chancellor

The University Teachers' Network has demanded the withdrawal of restrictions on cars and members of the public aimed at reducing crowding on the Dhaka University campus.

The group argues that limiting public access leads to unwarranted public suffering and damages the university's reputation.

It called for the campus to remain open for both vehicles and public movement.

Members of the organisation met with the vice-chancellor of Dhaka University, which was highlighted in a notice on its Facebook page on Friday.

At the meeting, Teachers' Network members urged the university administration to engage stakeholders on campus accessibility, announce dates for DUCSU and Teachers' Association elections, and address matters related to the Syndicate, Senate, Academic Council, and socio-cultural activities.

Dhaka University is more crowded than usual on various occasions and festivals.

To reduce crowding, the university authorities installed barricades at seven entrances to restrict the movement of vehicles and outsiders on the campus on Dec 13, ahead of Victory Day.

Later, the university administration ordered restrictions on vehicles without Dhaka University stickers and all non-emergency vehicles from entering the campus between 3pm and 10pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and public holidays, and between 5pm and 10pm on weekdays.

While some students feel relieved by the reduced crowd on campus, many, including former students, have criticised the restrictions.

The University Teachers' Network said: "Dhaka University is a historical public space in Bangladesh.

“With many important national establishments located here, many celebrations are centred around the university.

“Almost all national and political movements, including the 2024 mass uprising, began on this campus.

"Additionally, this university is the centre of numerous meetings, seminars, and intellectual activities.

“As a natural space, it serves as a place for the entire city to breathe.

“Given its proximity to important hospitals, educational institutions, shopping malls, and offices, the movement of vehicles on the City Corporation roads passing through the campus is a right for the citizens outside the campus."

During the meeting with the vice-chancellor, the Teachers’ Network also condemned the removal of Sheikh Hasina's “symbol of hatred” on the pillar of the metro rail.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Sayema Haque, Treasurer Professor Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed, and on behalf of the Teachers’ Network, Gitiara Nasreen of Dhaka University, Kamrul Hasan Mamun, Kazi Maruful Islam, Kamal Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, Tasneem Siraj Mahboob, Rushad Faridi, Moshahida Sultana, Kajalie Shehreen Islam, Dipti Rani Dutta, Marzia Rahman and Samina Luthfa were present.