Dhaka University's (DU) 104th founding anniversary witnessed subdued festivities, despite ambitious pledges for institutional transformation, with students noting dampened campus spirit compared to previous years.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan unveiled three strategic pillars on Tuesday during inaugural ceremonies themed "Building a Discrimination-Free and Inclusive Society."
He announced strengthening research capacity, advancing discrimination-free society through advocacy programmes and reinforcing alumni networks as core objectives for post-uprising Bangladesh.
"We stand on sacrifices of many people in post-uprising Bangladesh. Our national responsibilities have increased," he said, highlighting increased institutional obligations following recent political upheaval.
DU VC emphasised institutional inclusivity, seeking to unite 'people of all ethnicities, religions, races, and beliefs' through university's convening power to create broad national platform.
However, anniversary celebrations appeared lacklustre compared to traditional festivities. Students observed absence of customary cultural programmes and concerts typically staged around Central Playground, TSC, and Suhrawardy Udyan. Regular departmental classes continued uninterrupted despite University Day status.
Nazmus Sakib Adib, final year student, said, "And why wouldn’t the campus feel this dull? Two murders have happened right here and not a single one has seen get justice. Now, there’s a clear attempt to bring back partisan politics on campus. The uncertainty around DUCSU elections still looms large. Our so-called student leaders are more interested in settling panel politics than fighting for student rights.”
Vibrant rally featuring teachers, officials, staff and students wearing white caps proceeded with banners and festoons, yet campus atmosphere remained notably subdued. Students expressed concern over outsiders displaying greater enthusiasm than them.
Historic buildings including Curzon Hall, TSC and Faculty of Arts received elaborate lighting decorations, resembling 'beloved daughter dressing lavishly on her birthday.' Residential halls remained undecorated, highlighting uneven celebration efforts across campus.
Sabbir Hossain, student of 2021–22 session, said, "The halls are overcrowded with students, including some from as far back as the 2013–14 session, still staying on. Some even live here while keeping their wives and children back home. Meanwhile, freshers can’t get a seat, and there’s still no permanent solution. Even when seats are given, they’re shared or crammed. Why can’t we at least get single seats and a healthy environment to study?”
He said, “On top of that, last night (Monday) when the BCS results came out, social media was flooded with congratulatory posts for DU students who became cadres or non-cadres. But honestly, is that the core purpose of Dhaka University? This is a research institution, yet research gets just 2.08% of the university’s 1,035 crore taka budget, it’s laughable. Despite having MPhil and PhD degree holders, research output is barely visible. In many departments, teachers just read from slides and leave the class. Yet they jump with joy whenever QS ranking is announced. It’s a mockery of academic standards."
Anniversary marked significant milestone amid country's transitional period, with university positioning itself as catalyst for societal change whilst grappling with reduced celebratory traditions.
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