The ‘national’ interest in DU’s ‘international’ hall

Get married, and you will get a seat in the International Hall — remarks like this are frequently heard on the Dhaka University campus. Whether it is during friendly chats or in university Facebook groups, it has become a topic of humour. These discussions often pique students' curiosity, especially when contrasted with the dismal state of other halls.

What kind of hall is it? Who stays there? It is safe to say that this 'international' hall, originally built for foreign students, has sparked considerable 'national interest'.

Established in the 1960s with foreign students in mind, the hall was initially known simply as the International Hall. In 2001, it was renamed the Sir P J Hartog International Hall, after the university's first vice-chancellor. 

While it shares its residential nature with other halls of Dhaka University, it stands apart due to its unique features. It's a mystery not only to campus outsiders but also to students living within other halls. 

A residential hall like no other

The distinct environment of the International Hall is one of the main reasons for student curiosity. Unlike other halls, which are primarily allocated for Bangladeshi students, the International Hall exclusively houses foreign students.

The hall has a total of 116 rooms, with 53 allocated for teachers, 3 for officers, and 60 for students. Foreign students at Dhaka University and affiliated institutions can apply for accommodation here. However, priority is given to Dhaka University students.

Many students believe, however, that some local students also reside there. Others assume that married student couples from Dhaka University are allowed to stay in the hall.

Shahnaz Parvin, a former student of the university, shared her views, "I've heard that if two students get married, they can live in this hall — but only from their third year." She added, "Interestingly, one of my friends got married and applied to live there, but their application was rejected."

Another student, Dilora Jahan, mentioned, "I've heard from many that some Bangladeshi students also stay there. I even came across examples supporting this."

Such rumours have led many to believe that getting married would guarantee them a place in the hall. But is this true? Who actually resides in the International Hall?

Dispelling the rumors

Dr Mohammad Elias, a residential teacher of the hall, clarified, "It's not true that married students automatically get a seat here. Additionally, only male students can live in this hall."

Female foreign students are housed separately in dormitories like Rokeya Hall, Kuwait Maitree Hall, or Sufia Kamal Hall.

"Two married students can live here, but under specific conditions. Both must be Dhaka University students and must be foreign nationals. This policy does not apply to local students," Dr Elias explained.

He also noted that both must be affiliated with Dhaka University or one of its institutes. If one is a Dhaka University student and the other is not, or if both are foreigners but one is not a student, they are not eligible to stay in the hall.

Teachers and non-students in the hall

The International Hall is also home to other individuals besides foreign students. Fazlur Rahman (pseudonym), a former Dhaka University student occasionally stays at a friend's room in the hall.

So, how do locals get to live in a hall meant for foreign students?

It turns out that unmarried university teachers are allowed to stay in the hall, and some even bring their families after getting married. 

Administrative officer Syed Abdullah Ibn Hasan confirmed this, "Initially, we permit teachers as bachelors. Later, if they marry, they can stay with their spouses, subject to syndicate approval."

The hall has a total of 116 rooms, with 53 allocated for teachers, 3 for officers, and 60 for students. Some foreign students listed as non-residential are affiliated with the hall but live outside the premises.

Foreign students from Dhaka University and affiliated institutes, including medical colleges, can apply for accommodation. However, priority is given to Dhaka University students.

Currently, the hall accommodates 28 Dhaka University students, while the rest are from other institutes.

Inside the hall

So, what's inside the International Hall? The hall's administrative officer, Ibn Hasan, shared insights about its superior facilities.

Despite minor complaints about the coexistence of teachers and students and strict curfews, residents are largely satisfied

"The International Hall offers better security and amenities than other halls. Everything is tailored for students from diverse countries. Even their meals are specially prepared to ensure proper nutrition. There's a study room where students don't have to cram together, a library with computers and internet access, and indoor sports facilities," he said.

Rooms are well-organised, with each allocated to two students and equipped with attached bathrooms, unlike other halls where 7-8 students often share one room. The dining area is exclusive to hall residents, and meals are prepared according to their preferences.

"Despite all these facilities, the annual fee is quite reasonable — just Tk7,200. Given the amenities and 24/7 security, it's worth it," said Nepali student Wasim Akhtar Ansari from the Faculty of Pharmacy.

A politics-free zone

Unlike other Dhaka University halls, which have been plagued by political influence, the International Hall remains free from such interference. 

"No one can use force to stay here or interfere politically," said Dr Elias.

During the July protests, the hall even sheltered many female students, ensuring their safety.

Student satisfaction

Despite minor complaints about the coexistence of teachers and students and strict curfews, residents are largely satisfied. Local students also wish for similar improvements in their halls.

"Why can't we improve the dining facilities in our halls? We should learn from the policies of the International Hall," suggested Bangla Department student Mahmud Pallab.

For now, the International Hall continues to intrigue students, with its unique advantages inspiring hope for better facilities across all halls.