After nearly a month without a guardian, Jagannath University (JnU) finally had a vice-chancellor (VC) appointed from within its own institution on September 18.
For a long time, the university's teachers and students had been advocating for a VC from among their own ranks by staging various protests and demonstrations.
Now, for the first time, their demand has been met.
Expectations are now running high. Students, representing the broader student body, have voiced a range of hopes and demands regarding the new VC.
Chief among these is the desire to see Jagannath University transformed into a globally recognized institution.
Despite 19 years since its founding, the university has seen limited development, which many attribute to the previous VCs who came from outside the institution, mainly from Dhaka University.
With minimal visible progress under previous administrations, students are optimistic that having a VC from their own university will lead to meaningful change and advancement.
Nazmul Islam Naeem, a student of the English department, said: "A university's uniqueness emerges through the free flow of knowledge, research, and the intellectual development of its students."
He expressed his desire for an institution that provides "a world-class educational environment" while nurturing both creativity and intellectual growth.
He further mentioned the importance of prioritising modern technological facilities and opportunities for practical learning.
"The administration must be transparent, accountable, and student-friendly," Naeem added, emphasising that students should be able to express their opinions and concerns freely.
In his view, a safe and disciplined campus free from partisan politics is essential. He also stressed that participation in national and international research activities plays a crucial role in shaping the future of students.
Khadija Tul Kubra, a student of the Mass Communication and Journalism department, shared her perspective: "As a student, I expect the VC to be more than just a guardian—I want him to be a friend to the students, someone who personally understands and addresses issues such as housing and food shortages.
“The construction of dormitories on the second campus should be a top priority, and campus development should be completed swiftly. Every student should have the freedom to move around independently. I hope the university’s infrastructure development is completed without further delay," she added.
Mansurin Akhter Rima, student of Islamic History and Culture, said: "I expect the Honourable VC to work towards creating a corruption-free administration. The construction of the new campus must be expedited, and male dormitories recovered. Additionally, there should be employment opportunities for graduates within their departments, preparing them to contribute to nation-building."
Masud Rana, a student of the Bangla department, expressed his concerns: "I came to Jagannath University full of dreams, but issues like inadequate housing, poor infrastructure, and subpar canteen services are affecting the quality of our education.”
He hoped to see the necessary infrastructure for classes, exams, seminars, and libraries constructed. To address food shortages, there should be enough canteens or cafes.
“The administration must also ensure 100% housing for students and work to activate the student council. Increasing the budget for research is equally important," he added.
She said recovering dormitories and restructuring the university’s administrative system should be priorities. Students need access to research-oriented studies with the necessary laboratory equipment.
“The quality of food in the canteen should be improved, and prices kept affordable. We hope the new VC will take effective action on these matters without delay,” Roksana added.
Sabrina Jahan, from the Department of Islamic History and Culture, shared her thoughts: "From our new VC, Dr Md Rezaul Karim, I expect to see a university free from discrimination and corruption, with a student-friendly administration.”
She said the construction of the new campus must be completed as soon as possible. Students should have access to all essential services, including housing, canteens, and transportation.
“If teachers fail to attend classes on time, there should be a complaint box for students to report such issues. Measures must also be taken to prevent session jams, and new students should be protected from ragging when they join," she added.