CU students issue 2-day ultimatum for new VC appointment

Chittagong University (CU) students have staged a sit-in protest, demanding the appointment of a new vice-chancellor (VC) within two days. 

The protest took place this morning (8 September) at the Central Shaheed Minar on the university campus.

During the protest, the students expressed their grievances over the administrative void on campus, which has led to various problems, including the suspension of academic activities. 

They called on the interim government to appoint a VC promptly to restore normalcy at the university.

Russel Ahmed, one of the central coordinators of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, said, "After the fall of the autocratic Sheikh Hasina regime, we forced our sycophantic VC to resign. Since then, academic activities have been suspended, leading to a looming session jam. We urge the interim government to appoint a VC as soon as possible so that the university can return to normalcy."

He further said, "We want a VC who is education-friendly, student-friendly, and a researcher. We want someone who will look after the welfare of students and help elevate our university to global standards. We have given a two-day ultimatum. If a VC is not appointed within this period, we will take a tougher stance." 

Khan Talat Mahmud Rafi, another central co-coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also emphasised the urgency of the situation. 

"Due to the absence of a VC, classes and exams are suspended, and hall seat allocations are on hold. Therefore, we demand the prompt appointment of a VC. We are giving a two-day ultimatum, and if our demand is not met, we will escalate our protest," he stated.

Earlier, on 11 August, CU Vice-Chancellor Professor Abu Taher, along with two pro-vice-chancellors, Professor Benu Kumar and Professor Md Sekander Chowdhury, resigned following student protests that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. 

Subsequently, members of the proctorial body, student advisors, and residential hall provosts also resigned. 

Currently, retired officer KM Nur Ahmed is overseeing administrative responsibilities at the university.