Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (Kuet) remains at a standstill, with both students and faculty members firmly holding their respective positions, placing the university administration in a difficult situation.
Students staged a sit-in on Thursday in front of the administrative building, demanding the announcement of a roadmap to implement their five-point charter of demands, which includes the withdrawal of show-cause notices issued to 37 students over a February 18 clash, resumption of academic activities, the formation of a new investigative committee and a complete ban on political activities on campus.
Meanwhile, the Kuet Teachers’ Association concluded its seven-day ultimatum on the same day, having suspended all academic duties in protest of the alleged assault on colleagues and demanding punishment for those responsible.
Prof Dr Shahidul Islam, president of the association, said they have already met with the vice-chancellor, who responded positively to their demands.
He added that if their concerns are addressed, teachers will return to classes by Sunday; otherwise, they will begin a non-cooperation movement.
Meanwhile, the students also remain steadfast in their demands.
Interim VC Prof Dr Md Hazarat Ali met with the protesting students and urged them to exercise patience.
He acknowledged that progress is slow due to the firm stances taken by both sides but expressed hope that the issues would be resolved soon.
Notably, the clash on February 18 stemmed from student protests demanding a ban on political activities within the campus.
Following intense student demonstrations, the Ministry of Education relieved VC Prof Dr Mohammad Masud and Pro-VC Prof Dr Sheikh Shariful Alam of their duties on April 25.
On May 1, the Ministry appointed Ali as the new VC.
Although academic activities were scheduled to resume on May 4, they remain suspended due to the unresolved demands of the teachers.
