The Teachers’ Association of Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) has expressed strong concern and opposition regarding the appointment of an external academic as the university’s pro-vice chancellor.
According to the press release, the Teachers’ Association described the decision as a setback to the institution’s tradition of internal leadership.
In a meeting of the association’s executive committee held on 11 June, teachers criticised the appointment of Prof Dr Md Jahedur Rahman, a faculty member of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, to the position. They argued that the decision overlooks the experience, competence, and significant contributions of GAU’s own faculty members.
The association warned that such an appointment could undermine the university’s academic environment, research activities, and administrative stability.
Speaking at the meeting, Teachers’ Association General Secretary Prof Dr Mohammad Saiful Alam said GAU has achieved remarkable progress and global recognition in various rankings. He noted that the university possesses several senior academics with proven administrative expertise who are capable of serving in the role.
Association President Prof Dr Nasrin Akter Ivy emphasised that GAU faculty members have played a pivotal role in the university’s growth since its inception. She asserted that their experience and contributions deserve due recognition through appointments to key administrative positions.
The teachers’ leaders stressed that the issue is closely linked to the university’s institutional identity, dignity, and long-term development. They expressed disappointment that earlier concerns raised by the academic community regarding the appointment of an external candidate were not taken into consideration.
The association has called upon the government and relevant authorities to review the decision in the interest of the university’s stability and institutional integrity, demanding that a qualified candidate be appointed from among GAU’s own faculty members.
