University teachers: We are for quota reforms, not for abolishing it

Teachers of public universities have said they are in support of reforms to quota system, instead of abolishing it. The quota system is required for unprivileged people like ethnic minorities, they said in a statement. They said 56% quota for government jobs is irrational and students’ demonstrations demanding the reforms to the system are logical. The teachers also expressed concern over the attack of law enforcers on the protesters. “The government initially ignored the demand of the protesters, then oppressed them and finally met their demand as the protests became strong,” said the statement. The teachers condemned vandalism in the residence of Dhaka University’s (DU) vice chancellor (VC). They came up with a number of observations and demands to ensure safety of students and teachers. They are: 1. Rational reforms to quota system in government jobs should be made following the demands of students. An expert committee should be formed to work on quota reforms in line with the constitution. We think abolishing quota system will be contrary to the constitution. 2. Those responsible for attack on the demonstrators without any provocation should be identified and brought to justice 3. Identification and punishment of those who were involved in the vandalism of DU VC residence 4. Measures should be taken to ensure that no outsiders enter the university campuses and carry out attacks on students 5. Measures should be taken to ensure students are safe in their dormitories. The university authorities should make the seat distribution process in the halls instead of the students’ organizations 6. The measures taken by the teachers association of Jahangirnagar and Rajshahi universities for the security of the students and teachers is appreciable. Other teachers associations should also follow the suit. We hope teachers will work for the interest of their respective institutions beyond partisanship 7. Proper investigation into the attack and torture on students and the perpetrators should be brought to justice. Safety for teachers and students in the dormitories should also be ensured. A total of 33 teachers of various public universities signed in the statement.This article was first published on banglatribune.com