Teachers, officers, and staff at Rajshahi University (RU) have announced an indefinite full-day strike starting September 21, citing the university administration’s failure to meet their three-point demands by September 18. The strike comes just four days before the upcoming Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) elections.
A letter detailing their demands has already been sent to various university offices. The three-point agenda includes implementation of all institutional facilities (including quota provisions for dependents), abolition of all administrative customs, and provision of personal chambers for teachers along with increased funding for research.
The letter also specifies that if these demands are not addressed by September 18, the strike will continue indefinitely from September 21 until full compliance is achieved. During the strike, all administrative activities, classes, and examinations will be suspended, except for emergency services.
The letter was signed by six representatives on behalf of the university’s teachers, officers, and staff. These include Professor Md. Abdul Alim, President of the BNP-aligned Nationalist Teachers’ Forum and a faculty member of Agronomy and Agricultural Extension; Professor Md. Amirul Islam, General Secretary of the Nationalist Teachers’ Forum and a faculty member of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Professor Md. Abdullah Al Mamun, Amir of the university branch of Jamaat-e-Islami and a faculty member of Islamic Studies; Professor Md. Kamrul Ahsan, Secretary of the university branch of Jamaat and a faculty member of Zoology; Moktar Hossain, BNP-aligned President of the Officers’ Association; and Masud Rana, Jamaat-aligned Treasurer.
Meanwhile, the RU campus is witnessing a festive atmosphere ahead of the RUCSU elections. Since the ballot numbers were assigned through a lottery last Sunday afternoon, candidates have been actively campaigning. Activities include distributing ballot cards on social media, on-campus promotions in residential halls, key courtyards, meeting areas, playgrounds, and surrounding messes.
A total of 28,905 students are registered voters for the upcoming elections, which will include RUCSU, Hall Union, and Senate student representative polls. In total, 903 candidates are contesting. Each voter will cast 43 votes across different posts, and counting will take place on the same day, with results expected to be announced on September 25.
