Education Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud has urged universities to maintain a peaceful and stable educational environment, emphasizing the importance of avoiding unrest and unwanted incidents.
During a meeting with representatives from the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers' Associations (FBUTA) on Tuesday, Mahmud condemned any form of misconduct towards teachers, labelling it as punishable and stressing that using force to compel resignations is unacceptable.
He assured that a formal circular would be issued promptly to address and implement necessary measures to protect the integrity of the academic environment.
Teachers expressed gratitude for the adviser’s commitment to fostering a respectful and conducive atmosphere in universities.
They raised several pressing issues, including campus unrest, disrespect towards faculty, forced resignations, and harassment through legal cases, which they fear could undermine the education system.
Concerns were also raised about outsiders posing as students who are reportedly using intimidation to coerce school heads and teachers into resigning, escalating worries about the stability of educational institutions.
Teachers have called for decisive action from the education adviser to address and eliminate criminal activities in educational settings, and they hope for measures to restore normalcy in universities and other educational establishments.
Mahmud listened attentively to the teachers' concerns and expressed agreement with their reasonable demands.
He advised educators to diligently fulfill their responsibilities to restore discipline and ensure a conducive learning environment.
Mahmud expressed deep concern over the current issues and urged patience while working towards improvement.
Regarding forced resignations, Mahmud said that such actions are unacceptable.
Teachers noted that administrative changes occur with new government appointments and that deans are appointed through ordinances and rotated every two years based on seniority.
They stressed that no one, including vice-chancellors, has the authority to enforce resignations or appointments.
In response, the education adviser advised caution regarding those inciting students and creating unrest, including defamation of teachers and forced resignations.
The meeting also addressed teachers' ongoing protests over three demands.
A notification has been issued to cancel the Prottoy pension scheme, fulfilling one of their demands.
Regarding the remaining demands for "Independent Pay Scales" and "Super Grade", Mahmud expressed optimism and announced plans to convene a meeting with university teacher representatives in September to discuss these and other issues related to educational quality improvement.
FBUTA President Prof Dr Md Akhtarul Islam told Dhaka Tribune that they expect a smoother educational environment soon, with other issues also being resolved.
