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Published : 08 Dec 2025, 06:06 PM
Classes for the first batch (2024–25) of the proposed Dhaka Central University, comprising seven colleges in the capital, will begin on Jan 1, the education authorities have said.
The announcement came on Monday amid ongoing movement demanding the promulgation of the Dhaka Central University Ordinance.
The education ministry said the draft ordinance is being “revised and finalised” following consultations with all stakeholders, and an inter-ministerial meeting is planned on Dec 25 to review the draft.
The information was disclosed in a media statement issued by the ministry’s public relations wing on Monday afternoon.
The release also referred to the ongoing protests by teachers opposing the proposed schooling structure of the university, expressing hope that they would maintain professionalism as government employees.
Since Sunday, a section of students from the seven colleges staged a sit-in outside the ministry, demanding the ordinance’s promulgation.
The draft, released on Sept 24, proposes a schooling structure dividing the seven colleges into four interdisciplinary schools, while retaining higher secondary education.
Teachers from the colleges have opposed this model, concerned it undermines their career progression under the BCS General Education Cadre.
The ministry reported receiving over 5,000 opinions from students, teachers, academics, and civil society. Three stakeholder consultations were held under the Secondary and Higher Education Division, and views from relevant ministries and departments have been collected.
“Every suggestion is being reviewed against legal and practical considerations. The revised draft is expected to be ready for the Dec 25 inter-ministerial meeting,” the statement read.
To ensure continuity of education, the ministry is maintaining ongoing communication with all stakeholders. For the 2024–25 Academic Year, 9,388 students have been admitted to the arts and social sciences, science, and business units. An operational manual has been approved to guide interim administration, admissions, registration, and teaching.
Meetings with principals and teacher representatives on Dec 4 and 7 confirmed that classes for admitted students can begin on Jan 1, following the winter break.
While some students support rapid ordinance approval, others, along with teachers, oppose the schooling model, fearing it will compromise the colleges’ autonomy.
The ministry acknowledged these concerns, noting that revisions are under way, though the process is time-consuming.
