University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh has clarified its stance on political activities on its campus.
In a message to its students on Tuesday, the university said the recent announcement of the introduction of a student wing of a political party to ULAB and other private universities had come as a surprise.
“Many students and guardians, too, have expressed their worries. In response, we would like to clarify our position.”
The message read: “As per the charter of the university, ULAB is a non-political, non-profit academic institution. In the last eighteen years, we have built a fine institution with a unique and safe learning environment. Maintaining such an environment remains our highest priority.
“We are encouraged to see that our stakeholders—students, guardians, alumni and faculty—share the same spirit. It is equally encouraging to see that the honourable minister of education, Dr Dipu Moni, has also left it up to the institutions and their stakeholders to decide what is best for them.”
The ULAB authorities said they were duty-bound to ensure the protection of movement, studies and security of life of the students of the university according to Clause 9(5) of the Private University Act.
“However, given the realities of student politics in Bangladesh, we believe that the security conditions laid out in the Private University Act will be jeopardized if partisan political activities are allowed on campus.”
“Considering our code of conduct and university charter, we do not allow any partisan political activity or group representation which may disrupt our regular activities. At the same time, we discourage all concerned from any unauthorized use of our name or logo. Any such violations by ULAB students will be considered a serious breach of the Student Code of Conduct for which appropriate disciplinary action will be taken,” the university added.
ULAB said it was committed to preparing responsible citizens who could make informed choices in their lives.
“We believe students can best develop political sense through critical discourses, co-curricular activities and community engagements. We remain committed to the growth of our students as future leaders in manners that are constructive and conducive to a safe space of learning for all students.”
Addressing its students, ULAB said with their cooperation it would like to maintain the sanctity and integrity of the institution.
Recently Chhatra League, the student wing of the ruling Awami League, reportedly formed committees at the country’s renowned private universities, including at NSU, Brac University and East West University, drawing criticism on social media and other platforms.