Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) has announced the suspension of all academic activities for an indefinite period due to the situation arising out of the deaths of two students. This decision was taken at the 151st academic council meeting held under the chairmanship of the CUET Vice-Chancellor on Thursday afternoon. In a letter dated April 25, under the chairmanship of the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Dr. Sheikh Mohammad Humayun Kabir, the University Registrar (Additional Duty), notes that all academic activities, including examinations, at the undergraduate and graduate levels of the university have been suspended indefinitely due to the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of two gifted students from Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology on April 22.
It said that male students were directed to vacate the hall by 5 pm on Thursday (April 25) and female students by 9 am on Friday (April 26). University buses will run from the campus to the city to facilitate the students leaving the campus.
During the agitation, students articulated seven demands, prominently calling for the swift arrest of the absconding bus driver responsible for the fatalities, exemplary punishment by Shah Amanat Bus Authority, adequate compensation for the victims' families, and comprehensive medical care for injured students. Additionally, infrastructural improvements, including road widening and ambulance provision, were stipulated.
Fuad Iqbal, among the protestors, articulated these demands during a press conference, affirming that the agitation would persist until tangible resolutions were secured.
The fatal accident occurred when a bus collided with a motorcycle at the Selima Kader College Gate area of Chattogram-Kaptai Road, claiming the lives of Shanto Saha and Taufiq Hossain, CUET students.
CUET's campus is now resonant with protest slogans as students persist in their demands for road safety and justice. The agitation, marked by banners and road blockades, ensued with adamant resolve despite interactions with university officials failing to mitigate concerns.
A symbolic funeral prayer (Ghaibana Janaza) was held for Tawfiq, one of the deceased students, with participation from students, faculty, and the vice-chancellor, Mohammad Rafiqul Alam. The Vice-Chancellor assured proactive engagement with the administration to address the crisis.