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The Dhaka University vice-chancellor, Niaz Ahmed Khan, said on Thursday that the future of politics on campus should be decided based on societal decision.

‘As university is deeply rooted in society, the future of politics on campus should be determined by the society,’ he said.

He mentioned this during an interview with ¶¶Òõ¾«Æ·, on Thursday afternoon.

He emphasised forms of student politics that foster leadership, societal mindset and political thinking.

‘We should focus on forms of student politics that allow development of leadership and political thinking. These should be constructive and aimed at enhancing the quality of education and the relationship between the university and society,’ he said.

Prof Niaz highlighted the existing structures like the hall-based system and DUCSU (Dhaka University Central Students’ Union), along with various departmental platforms, as platforms for students to develop leadership skills and practice freedom of expression.

He also said that students from different educational institutions, alongside Dhaka University, had set a great example of voluntary work.

He wants to give this voluntary work an institutional form, so students can continue contributing to society throughout the year alongside pursuing studies.

On resuming academic activities he said, ‘We are facing a challenging time. The universities have been brought to a standstill as academic activities are not currently being conducted,’ Prof Niaz said. ‘Our first challenge is to restart all academic activities as soon as possible. Everyone must work together.’

Speaking on the topic of focusing on research, Prof Niaz said, ‘If we can somehow resume academic activities, we will focus on research work.’

‘We still have international standard teachers and I am eager to provide them more opportunities and facilities,’ he added.

He also stressed the need to strengthen connections with the industry to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

‘The university should remain connected to society, and the press can play a significant role in this regard,’ he noted.

Regarding the demand of DUCSU (Dhaka University Central Students’ Union), Prof Niaz said, ‘This is being viewed on a larger scale; we want to start slowly.’

Prof Niaz concluded by calling for broad consensus and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure Dhaka University’s progress, stating, ‘We want to be accountable to society. This is an institution for all students. Therefore, everyone must work together as I cannot accomplish anything on my own.’