Dhaka, Sep 09 (V7N) — Students under the banner of the 'Technical Student Movement' have taken to the streets in Tejgaon, blocking roads in seven areas to press for a six-point demand. The protest, which began on Monday morning, has resulted in severe traffic disruptions in key areas of the capital, including Tejgaon, Sat Rasta, and Hatirjheel, leaving passengers stranded and causing major delays.

The students intensified their protest around noon by positioning themselves on the roads, further aggravating traffic on major routes. By 11:00 a.m., the road from Farmgate to Shahbagh via Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue was almost completely blocked. Severe traffic congestion also affected Manik Mia Avenue, Moghbazar, Iskaton, and Hatirjheel.

The six demands put forward by the students are as follows:

1. Technical Sector Management: Ensure that no personnel without technical education are employed in the technical sector.

2. Diploma Engineering Course Duration: The diploma engineering course should remain a four-year programme, with each semester lasting a full six months.

3. Instructor Recruitment: The controversial 2021 recruitment of all craft instructors should be revoked, and those hired should be transferred from the technical directorate and institutes immediately.

4. Teacher Shortage: The teacher shortage in technical institutions should be addressed by amending the Department of Technical Education's recruitment rules and appointing qualified technical personnel to fill all vacant positions.

5. Higher Education Opportunities: 100% of seats should be secured for diploma engineering students in the proposed four engineering colleges to increase opportunities for higher education.

6. Job Reservation for Diploma Engineers: The position of Assistant Engineer (Grade 10) and equivalent posts should be reserved exclusively for diploma engineers, ensuring that no one else can apply for these positions.

The demonstration has caused significant disruption, with traffic in and around the affected areas coming to a standstill, leaving commuters frustrated. As the protest continues, it remains unclear how long the students will maintain their blockade.

END/AJ/SMA