Kuet students stage sit-in demanding resumption of classes

Students of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (Kuet) today staged demonstration demanding resumption of academic activities.

Under the banner of "Songram Committee", they started their sit-in around 12:30pm in front of the administrative building.

Md Rahatul Islam, a fourth-year student of the civil engineering department, confirmed the development.

According to the protesters, no classes were held as of today as the teachers are yet to return to the classrooms despite the announcement of resuming academic activities from May 4.

The crisis at the Kuet began on February 18 following an attack on the students allegedly carried out by outsiders. Since then, all academic activities were suspended for nearly three months. Initially, students launched a five-point demand. Eventually, they narrowed it down to a single-point demand — the VC's resignation. Responding to the pressure, the government later relieved the VC of his duties.

Later during a syndicate meeting, it was decided that academic activities would resume from May 4. But on May 5, the Kuet Teachers' Association held a press briefing and issued a seven-working-day ultimatum, demanding justice for assault on teachers and students on at the campus.

On the possibility of returning to classes, Professor Shahidul Islam, president of the Kuet Teachers' Association, today said, "We met with the VC to discuss the latest status of our demands. He is optimistic. We earlier gave the administration seven working days to ensure a conducive academic environment. That deadline ends at 5:00pm today."

He added, "Now we will observe developments over the weekends (Friday and Saturday) and on Sunday, will hold a general meeting to decide our next course of action. Our position will be officially announced through a press briefing."