Jagannath University (JnU) tops the list of universities with least housing facilities. Despite crossing almost two decades, JnU is still unable to ensure residential amenities for even 10 percent students. Students report that a significant portion of their money goes pay the house rent. So they have reduced the budget for food by eating unhealthy food to balance the life.
Hasan, a JnU student who is living in a mess of Old Dhaka, said, we used to have lentils and vegetables with fish during every meal, but now it has come down to just one dish. Where we used to get a meal rate of 40 taka, it has now risen to 55 taka. Sometimes, we have to eat only an egg along with rice. To cope, we have had to shift from buying 'Rui' fish to more affordable options like 'Tilapia' or 'Nola' fish."
Rahman, a fourth-year student at the university, shared his perspective saying, "Due to the upward trend in commodity prices, the quantity of belongings has decreased, as a result we are consuming less. Previously, where beef or chicken was consumed as a protein source for most of the month, now it's fish or eggs. Edible herbs have become the sole reliance for every meal."
Sajjad, another student, mentioned, "The remuneration I get from doing tuition remains the same as before, with no increment. On the other hand, the cost of food has risen significantly. Eggs make up a larger portion of our diet.
Occasionally, I buy 'Pangas' fish, but that also costs extra money. It's hard to afford monthly expenses with little salary and it becomes quite challenging day by day." Due to the upward trend in commodity prices, the JnU students have witnessed a significant shift in their dietary habits. Additionally, students claim that even though other universities offer quality food at a lower cost in their canteens, JnU lacks the same facilities.
Despite having around 18,000 students at the university, there is only one canteen available and even that lacks sufficient subsidies. While prices haven't seen a significant increase, the quantity of food has recently been reduced in the university canteen. Presently, a student spends around 30-40 taka for breakfast at the canteen.
Additionally, for lunch, rice-fish costs 45 taka, rice-chicken (a piece) costs 45 taka, and rice-egg-vegetables-lentils is priced at 35 taka. However, the food often runs out before the designated mealtime, leaving many students deprived of proper meals.
The canteen lacks sufficient space, only 48 students can sit at a time for a meal, which falls significantly short of the demand. Due to the limited seating, many are compelled to stand or eat outside. There are no arrangements for dinner which is a concerning issue for the students. JnU students have been expressing that if the number of canteens is increased and proper subsidies are ensured, they could enjoy an adequate amount of affordable food, which may provide them some relief amidst the rising commodity prices.