Students of Begum Rokeya University (BRUR) on Tuesday expressed dissatisfaction over the increase in admission related fees for the 2023-2024 session.
They also submitted a memorandum to Vice-Chancellor Dr. Md. Shaukat Ali.
In the memorandum, students demanded a reconsideration of the admission and form filling fees for the 2023-24 academic year. They also called for special assistance and fee waivers for financially disadvantaged students, and for the exact amount of each semester's fee to be announced at least 15 to 20 days in advance.
It is known that the tuition fee per credit has been increased from Tk35 to Tk50, continuous assignment from Tk50 to Tk70, admission fee from Tk100 to Tk500, transport fee from Tk300 to Tk 600, medical fee from Tk 100 to Tk 200, and electricity from Tk 120 to Tk 180. These increases will be effective for students of the 2023-24 academic year.
On Tuesday morning, students discussed the matter with the university's Student Advisor Professor Dr. Md. Elias Pramanik and Registrar Dr. Md. Harun-Or Rashid at the administrative building.
Saran, a student of the University inistration department, demanding a reconsideration of the semester fees, stated, "Our semester fees have been suddenly and significantly increased without any prior notice, and without considering the financial situation of the students. This puts many financially struggling students of the university in a difficult situation. The university administration should understand that not only wealthy students come here, but also many poor students. We want the fees to be reduced from the previous amount, if possible, or at least for the previous fees to remain in effect."
Regarding the students' demands, Professor Dr. Md. Elias Pramanik, the university's Student Advisor, said, "We agree with every fair demand of the students. We have already spoken with them and heard their statements. The issues will be discussed very soon in the Academic Council meeting, and a student-friendly decision is expected."
However, he cautioned students to be aware of any attempts to destabilize the university recently, stating, "Everyone must also pay attention to keeping the university environment peaceful."
