Titumir College’s university demand under ‘special consideration’, says education ministry

It urges protesters to refrain from programmes to avoid public suffering

The education ministry sees no reason for holding a time-bound protest, as the interim government is giving “special consideration” to the demand for converting Government Titumir College into a university.

In a statement issued by its public relations office on Saturday afternoon, the ministry urged protesters to "remain patient" and refrain from any activities that could "disrupt public life or interfere with the college's regular academic operations”.

Siraj Ud Daula Khan, senior information officer at the ministry, told bdnews24.com: “The [University Grants Commission] chairman’s committee, tasked with establishing an independent institutional framework for the seven colleges, is also working on the demand to upgrade Government Titumir College into a university. They have been assigned this responsibility.

“That is why the ministry has urged protesters to refrain from actions that could cause public inconvenience.”

The statement said the government is aware of the ongoing movement regarding Titumir College’s university status.

“The ministry wants to clarify that an expert committee, headed by the UGC chairman is working towards establishing a separate university comprising the seven historic colleges of Dhaka. The matter of Titumir College is being given special consideration," it read.

“The committee has already begun discussions with student representatives from Titumir College and the other six institutions to address their concerns.

“Enhancing educational opportunities and improving quality at these colleges remains the government’s top priority, with all possible alternatives under review.”

The ministry reassured that the government remains “attentive and sympathetic” to the legitimate demands of students and teachers.