Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST) remained under intense public scrutiny throughout 2025, navigating a year marked by academic initiatives, administrative controversies, campus unrest and security challenges.
From efforts to promote research and higher education to clashes, allegations of irregular recruitment, suspensions, renaming of facilities and the year ending in national mourning, the university experienced one of its most eventful years since its establishment.
TIMES presents a concise review of the key developments that shaped JUST in 2025.
Encouraging students towards higher education
The year began on a positive note with University Day celebrations on January 25, when JUST organised a poster presentation competition aimed at promoting research and innovation. Students showcased creative ideas and research-based projects, reflecting the university’s focus on academic engagement.
To further encourage research, the administration awarded prizes to the top 10 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The first prize was set at Tk5,000, followed by Tk4,000 for second place, Tk3,000 for third place and Tk1,000 each for those placed fourth to tenth.
Cafeteria reopened after four years
After remaining closed for four consecutive years, the university’s central cafeteria reopened, responding to sustained student demands since August 5. Despite repeated tender attempts, the prolonged closure forced the administration to act under pressure.
While the reopening was welcomed, students soon raised concerns over food quality, limited menu options and prices they claimed were higher than nearby eateries.
Science Fest draws school students
The Quantum Science Fest 2025, organised by the social organisation Unnata Manushir JUST, brought a positive spotlight to the campus. Around 300 students from eight schools and madrasas across Jashore participated in innovation-based competitions, quizzes and games.
Midnight protests over banned student group
Tensions escalated late on January 29 when general students staged a torch procession protesting a programme announced by the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL).
The protest followed controversial posts made by the organisation’s central leaders on the JUST unit’s Facebook page. Students from Shahid Moshiur Rahman Hall and Munshi Meherullah Hall led the demonstration, chanting slogans rejecting the presence of BCL on campus.
Clashes between student groups
On February 7, multiple clashes broke out between students of the Computer Science and Engineering department and members of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, alongside students from the FMB and EST departments.
At least eight students were injured as tensions flared over what was initially described as a trivial issue. The situation later eased, though both sides blamed each other for the violence.
Objection to proposed pro-vice-chancellor appointment
Students launched protests after reports emerged of an attempt to appoint Professor F M Saiful Islam of Sylhet Agricultural University as the pro-vice-chancellor of JUST.
He is the husband of Mosammat Nazmanara Khanum, who was accused by protesters of being aligned with the former authoritarian regime. Students declared that individuals linked to fascism would not be accepted on campus.
Renaming Sheikh family-linked structures
Following the fall of the previous government, the university renamed several structures that had been named after members of the fallen prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s family.
Decisions taken at the 105th Regent Board meeting saw Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Academic Building renamed Kazi Nazrul Academic Building, Sheikh Hasina Female Hall renamed Taposi Rabeya Hall, Sheikh Russell Gymnasium renamed Bir Sreshtho Hamidur Rahman Gymnasium, and the Veterinary Medicine Faculty Student Hall in Jhenaidah renamed Kobi Golam Mostofa Hall.
Allegations of illegal recruitment
The Anti-Corruption Commission filed a case against Professor Iqbal Kabir Jahid over allegations that he illegally appointed himself as an assistant professor without meeting required qualifications.
The case also named former JUST vice-chancellors Abdus Sattar and Md Anwar Hossain, along with Rajshahi University professor Mosammat Ferdousi Begum.
Rape case against a faculty member
A rape case filed against Sujon Chowdhury at the Chattogram Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal sent shockwaves through the campus.
The accused had earlier faced allegations of question paper leaks, harassment of female students and opposition to the July mass uprising. The victim also submitted written complaints to the university registrar and department chairman, demanding dismissal and punishment.
International ranking milestone
On April 23, JUST achieved a major academic milestone by being ranked for the first time in the Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings 2025.
The university placed in the 401–500 band in Asia and emerged as Bangladesh’s top science and technology university among six institutions from the country listed.
Budget allocation for 2025–26
For the 2025–26 fiscal year, JUST received a total budget of Tk98 crore 53 lakh.
The allocation included Tk92 crore 43 lakh from the University Grants Commission and Tk6 crore 10 lakh from the university’s own income. Treasurer Hossain Al Mamun presented the budget at the 107th special Regent Board meeting, where it was unanimously approved.
Suspensions and expulsions
On August 15, the 108th Regent Board meeting decided to temporarily suspend two teachers and two officers, permanently dismiss one officer and expel eight students from campus and halls.
The expelled students were identified as followers of a former banned BCL president.
Promotion disputes and academic challenges
Allegations were raised against Vice-Chancellor Md Abdul Majid over delays in promotions and upgradations.
More than 50 teachers, around 40 officers and over 80 staff members reportedly went without promotion boards for over one and a half years, leading to frustration and resignations.
Students also struggled with retake policies, as those from the 2022–23 session were allowed only one retake per course, with additional attempts requiring a Tk5,000 fee and risking year loss.
Infrastructure and sanitation crisis
Students repeatedly complained about broken water filters, unhygienic drinking water and poorly maintained toilets across academic buildings and the central library.
Despite multiple complaints, they alleged limited response from the engineering department and estate branch.
Clashes with local residents
On November 25, clashes erupted near Ambottola Market following allegations of harassment of a female student.
At least 27 students, including two university journalists, were injured. Students blocked the Chowgacha–Dhaka highway, prompting the deployment of police and army personnel.
Year ends in mourning
The year closed with Vice-Chancellor Md Abdul Majid expressing deep sorrow over the death of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, who died on December 30 in Dhaka.
As 2025 drew to a close, JUST stood at a crossroads, balancing academic achievements with persistent administrative, security and governance challenges that continue to shape its future.
