Dhaka University (DU) has witnessed a remarkable surge in student attendance, nearing 100%, following the July movement, even as demonstrations and faculty-related challenges persist.
Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed highlighted the increased student activism, stating, "Students have been regularly raising demands and holding demonstrations, more so than before. This has made DU the epicenter of protests and demands."
He explained that the university has imposed restrictions on the use of sound systems during official hours and banned ultrasound systems at political programs to maintain order. However, these restrictions were temporarily relaxed during the book fair and ahead of Ekushey February (Language Martyr's Day). "Once these events conclude, stricter measures will be reinstated," he added.
Dr. Mahmood Osman Imam, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, attributed the high attendance to more students residing in university halls from their first year. He noted that while many issues related to student bans have been resolved, major concerns are still under review by the university's fact-finding committee. "Faculty numbers in some departments have decreased due to student-imposed bans, but we’ve managed to complete semesters by utilizing honorary professors and interchanging faculty members," he said.
Dr. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, reported no decline in attendance in his department. He emphasized that students dismissed for ties with the Chhatra League were irregular attendees even before the movement. However, he acknowledged that nearly 50 teachers across the university face accusations, with the fact-finding committee still addressing these cases.
Dr. Taiabur Rahman, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, noted that while initial challenges existed in bringing students back to classes, overall attendance is now satisfactory. "We’ve continued with the existing curriculum, albeit with simplified courses," he said. He also mentioned that a minimal number of teachers have been accused, with many cases already resolved by the fact-finding committee.
Dr. Abdus Salam, Dean of the Faculty of Science, pointed out that some students struggle with early morning classes due to disrupted sleep cycles. He also highlighted the ongoing political consequences affecting students' academic status, though their full impact remains unclear. "In my faculty, only one teacher has been accused of ties with the previous regime," he added.
Despite the challenges, DU has managed to maintain academic continuity and high student attendance, showcasing the resilience of its academic community amid rising activism and institutional reforms.
