Photo: TDM
The decision to establish new departments at Jahangirnagar University without resolving the existing classroom and lab crisis has sparked criticism and concerns among students and leaders.
During the 40th Senate Session of Jahangirnagar University held on Saturday (June 24), the Vice-Chancellor's announcement regarding the establishment of a Faculty of Engineering within the University drew strong opposition from the Bangladesh Student Union, Jahangirnagar University Sangsad. They believe that proceeding with such a decision without addressing the current classroom and lab crisis in existing departments would have severe repercussions.
In a joint statement released on Sunday (25 June), Imtiaz Arnab, President of the Bangladesh Students' Union, and Amartya Roy, General Secretary of Jahangirnagar University Sangsad, expressed the united opposition of the student body to the construction of new buildings without a comprehensive master plan. They emphasized the importance of a master plan to address the crisis faced by the current departments and faculties. The leaders fear that establishing a new faculty without proper planning could exacerbate the students' ongoing difficulties.
The statement issued by the leaders called for the immediate implementation of the university's research cell. They argued that it is the university administration's responsibility to provide a conducive environment and necessary facilities for research work conducted by both teachers and students.
However, the current functionality of the university's research cell does not appear to be effective. The leaders are urging the administration to make the research cell fully operational without delay. Additionally, they are advocating for the provision of fellowships to at least one graduate student from each department, the introduction of a course evaluation system, and the mandatory requirement of a thesis for all students.
The concerns raised by the student union shed light on the need for comprehensive planning and the prioritization of existing infrastructural issues at Jahangirnagar University. While expanding the university's departments is undoubtedly important for academic growth, addressing the immediate classroom and lab crisis is crucial to ensure the quality of education and research opportunities for current students.
TDM/FMT
