3 Syndicate meets in 4 months resolved several issues at JnU

The long-pending issues of the Jagannath University (JnU), which remained stuck due to the illness and subsequent demise of former Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Imdadul Hoque, have been resolved as the new administration of the university led by the new VC, Dr Sadeka Halim, has been working relentlessly to resolve those and bring pace in the administration.

As per the university law, there is a provision for holding syndicate meetings at least once every two months. However, due to the serious illness and subsequent demise of former Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Imdadul Hoque, the syndicate had remained inactive for 10 months at Jagannath University.

This led to a crisis in the university involving various issues such as promotions, appointments, academic leave, PhDs, and recruitments, causing a deadlock. Dr Sadeka Halim has joined as the Vice-Chancellor, and within 4 months of her tenure, three syndicate meetings have been held consecutively. Progress has been made in resolving various issues including long-standing promotions, appointments, and academic leaves. Additionally, the entire country had its eyes on the syndicate due to the incident of suicide amidst ongoing sexual harassment allegations, leading to the suspensions of two teachers.
Dr Sadeka Halim, the Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University, said, "I faced challenges head-on immediately after joining. Due to the prolonged absence of the former deceased Vice-Chancellor, the syndicate was inactive for a year, causing disruptions in teachers promotions. To resolve this crisis, I held 3 to 4 board meetings in a single day. I worked in the office every day, including Fridays and Saturdays, until 9 or 10 pm. Academic leave for teachers was another important issue. Without it, teachers intending to pursue higher degrees abroad faced difficulties. Due to the long absence of the syndicate, they were facing problems. We have resolved the issue of 105 teachers academic leave. Their salary and allowances issues have also been addressed. "

The Vice-Chancellor mentioned that many officers and employees had to be reappointed. During the tenure of the late respected Vice-Chancellor Dr Imdadul Hoque, there were various investigations regarding the appointment letters for recruitment, in addition to appointing 15 regular employees and taking 3 more and 6 employees without notification. Due to problems in those matters, he did not sign them.

These issues will be discussed in the syndicate, and new recruitment notices will be issued. Efforts are being made to resolve this complex issue of officers and employees.

Dr Sadeka Halim stated that through the syndicate, arrangements have been made to address important issues similar to prolonged sexual harassment investigations. Based on ongoing investigations, decisions have been made within the syndicate to temporarily dismiss Abu Sahed Emon, a teacher in the Film and Television Department.

As a result, the affected student, Kazi Farzana Meem, has received justice after a long period. Moreover, regarding an inappropriate relationship with a student, a decision was made during a syndicate meeting to temporarily dismiss Manik Munsi, a teacher in the Mathematics Department, based on evidence of marriage temptation.

Regarding the suicide incident, she mentioned that the latest syndicate meeting had discussed the suicide incident and initiated an investigation. The committee has informed that technical issues need to be addressed, such as obtaining information from the autopsy report and gathering statements. It is a complex and sensitive matter. After joining, she has taken action against all incidents of sexual harassment. If a case of sexual harassment is proven, no one will be spared. We are working together with all deans, academic councils, and syndicate members as a team to address incidents of sexual harassment. Furthermore, we are paying special attention to the development of the new campus. Construction work on the engineering building is progressing well. Tenders have been issued for filling land for earth development. We are also considering acquiring the remaining 12 acres of land.

Jagannath University Teachers Association President, Prof Dr Md. Jakir Hossain, said due to the absence of the syndicate for a long time, various matters concerning the teachers were pending. With the syndicate being convened consecutively in a short period, many promotions and academic leaves have been processed. Several decisions have been taken. As a result, the situation has returned to normal. The current Vice-Chancellor is an academic figure. With her cooperation, the university will move forward.

Abdul Kader (Monir), the President of the University Staff Association, said, "Honorable Prime Minister has appointed a dynamic teacher like Dr Sadeka Halim as the Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath University, a worthy daughter of worthy parents. This university is a challenging place. Within a short time, she has successfully tackled various challenges. Through several syndicate meetings, she has efficiently resolved many complex issues concerning the staff. The staff members are pleased. I congratulate the decision to revoke the recruitment of 6 employees without notice."