A growing crisis at Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (Cuet) threatens to deepen following an all-out shutdown declared by students and a complete work abstention announced by teachers and officials.
Addressing concerns regarding university operations, the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor Professor Sheikh Shariful Alam said that the existing issues will be resolved through dialogue.
Speaking to TIMES over the telephone on Friday evening, Alam confirmed that he submitted his joining letter and claimed “the campus situation has become mostly normal.”
“Teachers, officers, and employees have been reaching out to offer their cooperation, while dialogue with various student delegation groups is currently ongoing at multiple levels,” he said.
On the matter of campus security, the vice-chancellor noted that the government and local administration are taking the necessary measures to strengthen overall safety.
He expressed confidence that the university will return to normalcy within a desired and appropriate timeframe, emphasizing that his primary objective is to foster an inclusive academic environment so that Cuet can stand tall globally as a high-quality academic institution.
Alam also highlighted his personal affection for Cuet as a former student and member of various university committees.
Commenting on the ongoing campus demonstrations, the vice-chancellor said, “the scale of the movement is not large, involving only 30 to 35 students. Students have already unlocked the campus premises and are preparing to warmly welcome him.”
Regarding his physical arrival on campus to assume charge in person, Alam indicated that he may arrive before Sunday or at any suitable time.
Students at Cuet have been protesting since 21 September to demand the reinstatement of Professor Abu Sadat Muhammad Sayem as vice-chancellor, observing an all-out shutdown programme.
Pressing for the same demand, the Cuet Teachers’ Association has announced a full work abstention starting from Sunday.
