Dhaka, Feb 2 (V7N) – The government will not establish any new universities under pressure from protests, nor will it grant special privileges to Titumir College, said Education Advisor Professor Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud.

Speaking to reporters at his office after a meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) at the Planning Commission on Sunday, Dr. Mahmud emphasized that education policy decisions cannot be dictated by student protests.

No Immediate Plans for Titumir College’s University Status

Addressing the ongoing student hunger strike and protests demanding university status for Titumir College, the Education Advisor stated:

“Many students want to return to their classes and do not support causing public suffering. The protesting students should also consider this.”

He further clarified that while the government is reviewing the situation, there is no plan to upgrade Titumir College into a university in response to demonstrations.

Plan to Make Seven Colleges a Separate University

Dr. Mahmud acknowledged the strained relationship between Dhaka University (DU) and its seven affiliated colleges, including Titumir College. He revealed that the government is actively working to transform the seven colleges into a separate university.

“Dhaka University and the seven colleges do not want to be linked anymore. A committee is already working on making them a separate university, but setting a fixed deadline for this is not realistic.”

Rajshahi College More Suitable for University Upgrade

When asked about potential candidates for university status, the Education Advisor prioritized Rajshahi College over Titumir College, citing its historical significance:

“If any college deserves to be made into a university at this time, it is Rajshahi College, as it is the oldest in Bangladesh.”

Students Continue Protests Despite Govt’s Stance

Despite the government’s firm stance, Titumir College students remain committed to their hunger strike and roadblock protests. With no resolution in sight, tensions between students and the administration are expected to escalate.

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