Dhaka University (DU) students cite registrar's building (administrative building) chaos, including rude staff, long delays in transcript processing, confusing office referrals, unjust fees, lack of digital services, poor communication, and hurdles for international applications. Even urgent tasks take days, and graduates face trouble collecting documents. Many suffer due to inefficiency and outdated systems.
On Thursday, April 24, former DU Chemistry student Tasnim Mahzabin claimed on her Facebook profile that she has been unable to apply for a PhD for six years due to DU's reluctance to forward an email. She alleged that some officials demand BDT 1300 just to forward the email.
She wrote, “Now regitar's buildings officials act like bosses, demanding family presence. What’s the point of this struggle?”
When asked about the matter, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha told the Daily Observer, "We are currently exploring whether special help desk support can be provided for the essential services. Moving all services online is a time-consuming process. However, discussions have already taken place with the ICT Cell, and they are working on it. If students wish, they can share more of their feedback. The university administration will receive such suggestions very positively."
Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed, Acting Registrar, told The Daily Observer,
“If anyone faces any problem, please ask them to contact me directly. Former students living abroad can also send someone on their behalf. And we are taking the complaints raised by the students seriously and trying to resolve them.”
Following Mahzabin's post DU Students posted more grievances regarding dreadlock of Registrar's building in their private Facebook group 'Dhaka Bissobiddalay Shikkharti Sangsad'.
Farhana Tasmin Tonni from Zoology Department described scholarship refund processes as "incredibly complex," suggesting authorities should deduct tuition fees during admission instead. She reported arriving at offices to find staff unavailable during working hours, with employees returning from extended lunch breaks and displaying dismissive attitudes.
Chinese Language student Farhana Farah expressed concern for students planning to study abroad, stating: "Those who plan to study abroad should not be made victims of system's red tape." She emphasised staff must handle document processing efficiently "as part of their job—not as if they're doing a favour."
Multiple students reported persistent issues with staff punctuality. Tahsin Tabassum claimed most desks remain empty during working hours with available staff often engaged in social media rather than official duties. Peace and Conflict Studies student Abidur Rahman advocated for CCTV installation and investigation into specific staff members with numerous allegations.
Former student Mahfuja Anika Shova suggested simplifying certificate collection processes, noting difficulties for graduates who leave Dhaka after completing studies. Similarly, alumni Md Jahangir Alom highlighted excessive fees—BDT 5,000—for transcript evaluation services that other universities provide without charge.
Transcript processing for international applications emerged as a major concern. IER Course Associate Faija Karim described sending transcripts abroad as "such a hassle," while former student Atia Sanjia Islam reported even urgent applications require 7-10 days despite payment of extra fees.
Financial concerns were also prominent, with Peace and Conflict Studies student Raihan Kobir waiting three months for refund processing without updates. Nuclear Engineering student Mehedi Hasan Sourov detailed frustrating experiences searching for transcripts, being sent between offices repeatedly before leaving empty-handed.
Students recounted numerous instances of disrespectful treatment. Sanjana Afrin Aishy reported staff yelling, "Did I call you? Who told you to come in?" when she returned after being asked to wait. Botany student Mariam Mouri described circular referrals between offices with contradictory information.
Administrative inconsistencies affect financial aid as well. Sharmin Akter has not received her BDT two thousand board scholarship despite using same account successfully for four years. Staff demanded additional documentation despite existing records confirming payment status.
Several students called for systemic reform. Habiba Akter advocated complete digitalisation, questioning why email services cost USD 50 when many universities offer them free. Residential student Annika Anjum Etu suggested removing unproductive staff, stating: "Their job is to provide timely services to students. If they can't do that, there's no justification for giving them so many perks."
Ruqayyah Hall resident Rokeya Akter shared widespread frustration, describing running "back and forth 7-8 times just to fix one password issue" while being treated poorly during a critical exam period.
Widespread complaints emerged from DU students regarding administrative inefficiency, with issues ranging from complex refund processes to poor staff behaviour. Students highlighted significant delays in essential services and unprofessional conduct that hampers their academic progress from registrar's building (administrative building).
