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Acting AUST VC quits amid protest


Published : 01 Nov 2019 09:28 PM | Updated : 07 Sep 2020 07:13 PM

Prof Dr Kazi Shariful Alam, the acting vice-chancellor (VC) of Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST), has stepped down in the face of protests of students. Acting Treasurer Prof Dr Md Amanullah will carry out the duty of the VC until a regular VC is formally appointed, said a press release issued by AUST on Thursday evening.

Students of the private university have been demonstrating on campus since last Monday, protesting against Shariful's alleged abuse of office and pressing for a nine-point charter of demands, which included his resignation. On Tuesday, they had also locked the gates of all university buildings and announced to boycott of classes and examinations until their demands were made.

The students’ other demands would be considered after the next regular VC takes office, added Thursday's press release. The demands include cancellation of all administrative decisions taken by Prof Shariful; transparency in use of all types of fees charged; upgradation of lab, classroom, washroom, canteen, security and transportation along with more budget allotment for these facilities; new academic calendar; formation of an alumni association.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry has also intervened and postponed the university’s plan to hold the convocation on Sunday, without the VC, pro-VC and treasurer. AUST in another media statement also announced the postponement of the admission test for next session, which was scheduled for November 2.

Requesting anonymity, one of the protesting AUST students told Dhaka Tribune that they might sit with the new acting VC on Monday to discuss their demands. No AUST officials were available for comments in this regard last night.