A SURGE of protests by teachers and students at public universities across Bangladesh underscores a deepening crisis in the country鈥檚 higher education system. The causes of this unrest are multifaceted, involving contentious policies such as the newly introduced pension scheme named Prattay under the Universal Pension Scheme and the reinstatement of the quota system in government jobs. Although these issues are distinct, they are converging to create a perfect storm that is severely disrupting academic activities and casting a shadow over the future of higher education in Bangladesh.
The government鈥檚 introduction of the Prattay scheme has faced strong opposition from public university teachers, who view it as discriminatory and detrimental to their professional dignity. The Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers鈥� Association, FBUTA, which represents teachers from 35 public universities, has been leading the protests, demanding the reinstatement of previous pension facilities. The situation escalated when teachers engaged in a full-day work abstention on June 30 and subsequently announced an indefinite strike starting July 1.
Teachers argue that the new pension scheme is inequitable. The FBUTA contends that the scheme was introduced without proper consultation with the primary stakeholders 鈥� the teachers. According to FBUTA, the scheme is not only discriminatory but also threatens to discourage future generations from pursuing academic careers. Their demands include the cancellation of the Prattay scheme, the inclusion of university teachers in the super grade, and the establishment of a separate pay scale for university teachers.
Despite several rounds of protests and work abstentions, the government has not adequately addressed the teachers鈥� concerns. The education minister, Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, has stated that the matter falls outside the ministry鈥檚 jurisdiction as it pertains to government policy. This response has only fuelled the teachers鈥� resolve, leading to a complete shutdown of academic activities in public universities.
Parallel to the teachers鈥� protests, students have also taken to the streets to oppose the reinstatement of the quota system in government jobs. The quota system, which mandates 30 per cent of government posts be filled by descendants of freedom fighters, was abolished in 2018 in favour of a merit-based recruitment process. However, a recent court ruling invalidated the government鈥檚 quota cancellation order, effectively reinstating the system.
The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has emerged as a vocal critic of the quota system. Students argue that the quota system is outdated and discriminatory, particularly against those who do not benefit from it. They demand the reinstatement of the 2018 notification and the establishment of a commission to ensure a rational and fair quota system that benefits genuinely marginalised groups. The protests have seen thousands of students from various universities and colleges, including Dhaka University, block major intersections such as Shahbagh, causing significant disruption to traffic and daily life.
The simultaneous movements of teachers and students have brought the higher education system to a grinding halt. At Dhaka University, one of the country鈥檚 premier institutions, all classes, examinations and academic activities have been suspended indefinitely. The situation is similar at other public universities, including Jahangirnagar University, Jagannath University, Chittagong University, Rajshahi University, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and Shahjalal University of Science and Technology.
This disruption has far-reaching consequences. For students, the indefinite suspension of classes and exams means a delay in their academic progress, graduation and entry into the job market. For teachers, the ongoing protests and work abstentions threaten their professional stability and morale. The broader impact on the nation鈥檚 higher education system is profound, as the uncertainty and unrest could deter future students from enrolling in public universities and aspiring academics from entering the teaching profession.
Resolving this crisis requires an empathetic approach from the government. Firstly, there needs to be an open and transparent dialogue with both teachers and students. The concerns regarding the Prattay scheme must be addressed by revisiting the policy and ensuring it meets the needs and expectations of university teachers. Engaging in meaningful discussions with the university teachers and considering their demands could pave the way for a resolution that respects their dignity and contributions.
Similarly, the issue of the quota system in government jobs requires a balanced approach. While acknowledging the historical and social context that led to the establishment of the quota system, it is essential to evaluate its current relevance and impact. The government could consider forming a commission, as demanded by the students, to review and recommend a quota system that is equitable and just, ensuring that it benefits those who are truly disadvantaged without compromising merit-based recruitment.
In the short term, it is crucial to restore normalcy in the academic environment. The indefinite suspension of academic activities cannot continue without severe repercussions. The government, university administrations and protest leaders need to find common ground and work towards a solution that allows for the resumption of academic activities. This could involve temporary measures or compromises that address the immediate concerns of both teachers and students while longer-term solutions are developed.
The ongoing protests by teachers and students in Bangladesh鈥檚 public universities are symptomatic of deeper issues within the higher education system and government policies. The discontent over the Prattay scheme and the quota system emphasises the need for policies that are inclusive, fair and developed in consultation with stakeholders. As the future of higher education hangs in the balance, it is imperative for the government to act decisively and compassionately to resolve the crisis. Only through constructive dialogue and mutual understanding can the academic environment be restored, ensuring that the future of higher education in Bangladesh remains bright and promising.
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HM Nazmul Alam is a lecturer in English and modern languages at the International University of Business, Agriculture and Technology.