Sakibul Hasan
An end is finally in sight to nearly a decade of academic and administrative uncertainty surrounding seven government colleges in the capital, marking a definitely significant achievement in Bangladesh’s higher education landscape. The Advisory Council has approved the ordinance Named “Dhaka Central University,” aimed at establishing an autonomous university by Combining the seven government colleges in the capital.
Following years of ongoing protests, anticipation, and uncertainty, students have welcomed the government’s decision as a historic recognition of their long-standing and legitimate demand. With the ordinance’s approval, the long-cherished aspiration of students from Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, Government Bangla College and other affiliated institutions for a separate university has moved a step closer to realizatioThe
The verdict was taken at the Advisory Counci meeting held on Thursday (22 January). Additional Secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Division of the Ministry of Education, confirmed the advancement to the media. He noted while the ordinance has been approved, the date for its formal announcement has yet to be finalized. Once things, the process of appointing university authorities, including the Vice-Chancellor, and outlining the administrative and academic framework is expected to begin.
The news rapidly reached students who had been staging a sit-in in front of Dhaka College and also social media. Protesters learned of the approval via a phone call from the Ministry of Education, Around 2:00 pm. The confirmation instantly transformed that place, as exhaustion and anxiety gave way to joy, relief, and celebration.
Education Adviser’s Call Boosts Confidence
In a gesture widely appreciated by students, Education Adviser Professor Chowdhury Rafiq-ul-Abrar (C R Abrar) personally called student representatives to convey the news. Protesters especially, Abdur Rahman who is a student of Dhaka College, described the call as more than an official announcement, viewing it as a strong signal of trust and responsiveness from the government. Sriti akter who is a student of Islamic History and Culture at Eden Mohila College, told that, “When the adviser himself called to inform us of the approval, we could hardly believe it. Today, our long struggle truly feels worthwhile.”
Following the announcement, students ignited in celebration. Slogans example, “We want Dhaka Central University” and “A separate university is our right” echoed through the area. Many embraced each other, while others shed tears of joy, as months of frustration and mental strain appeared to dissolve in moments.
For years, the seven government colleges had been operating as affiliated institutions of the DU, a structure that led to frequent delays in examinations, result publication, and academic decision-making. Seeking relief from these persistent challenges, students launched a sustained movement demanding a fully autonomous university.
Amid continued protests and growing support, the government ultimately moved to address the issue. Education experts believe the establishment of Dhaka Central University (DCU) will ease administrative complexities and ensure greater academic autonomy within the capital’s higher education system.
Following the ordinance’s announcement, authorities are anticipated to: Appoint the Vice-Chancellor and key administrative officials
Form the Syndicate and Academic Council
Reorganize academic departments Introduce an independent academic calendar and examination system. Students hope the new university will bring greater efficiency, academic quality, and stability to their education.
Dhaka Central University (DCU) is more than an institution—it stands as a symbol of years of struggle, resilience, and hope for thousands of students across seven government colleges. With the ordinance’s approval, that collective dream has taken a decisive step toward becoming reality.
News Published By:
Bangladesh Diary
Photo: Collected
