Dhaka University (DU) plans to introduce seven latest reforms following student criticism. These include reducing transcript fees from USD 50 to USD 10, planning an online payment system, enabling digital document submission, listing required documents online, setting up an emergency help desk, providing office task details online, and improving staff behavior to ensure respectful communication.
On Friday evening, April 25, both Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha and Acting Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed confirmed Daily Observer.
"We believe we can reduce this amount even further," Professor Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha said. "Since we are now in era of online transactions, we are planning to introduce an online payment system."
Currently, payments must be processed through Sonali Bank as university lacks internal cash transaction capabilities. ICT cell has been tasked with developing a system allowing students to submit documents online rather than in person.
"If we can implement this quickly, it will be an ideal solution," she added. "To ensure smoother and faster service, we will list required documents on our website."
University administration is also establishing an emergency help desk as part of broader service improvement efforts.
Acting Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed clarified current procedures, explaining transcript requests require completing a form and submitting necessary documentation, after which transcripts are sent via email.
"I believe there might have been a gap or misunderstanding somewhere in process," Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed stated regarding complaints from former student Tasnim Mahzabin. He noted university processes "significant number" of transcript applications regularly.
He acknowledged issues with confusing office referrals where students are often misdirected between sections. "Sometimes, officials giving direction does so without being fully certain," he admitted.
To address this problem, administration will publish clear information online about which offices handle specific tasks. "There is a dashboard on third floor of Office of Controller of Examinations which clearly mentions which tasks are handled in which sections and rooms," Registrar explained.
Responding to complaints about staff conduct, Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed assured that staff have been instructed to treat students "with complete transparency and courtesy."
"After all, they are like our younger siblings, children, or close relatives," he emphasised. "On Sunday, in presence of Controller of Examinations, I will summon all officers and staff and explain this to them clearly."
