Public university teachers have decided to continue their protest against the universal pension scheme Pratyay, given that their demands have not been met yet.
Bangladesh University Teachers Association Federation President and Shahjalal University of Science and Technology Professor Akhtarul Islam made the announcement following an online meeting on the outcome of yesterday’s discussion with Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader.
Akhtarul Islam said, “They took a written statement containing our demands and said the demands would be presented to the Prime Minister. That’s why we are hopeful that our demands will be met.”
Meanwhile, the protesting teachers gathered outside the Kala Bhaban on the Dhaka University campus to present their demands, while the university staff and employees brought out a procession to press home their demand to cancel the pension scheme.
Public university teachers, employees, and staff have been on work abstention since July 1, demanding the cancellation of the universal pension scheme Pratyay, halting classes, exams, and administrative activities at the country's higher education institutions.
In the wake of the protest, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader met with the delegation of the protesting teachers and said the previously announced launch date of July 1, 2024, was not accurate; rather, the scheme will come into effect on July 1 next year.
After the meeting, Quader said he had a detailed discussion with the teachers and expressed hope that the issue would be resolved soon.
University Teachers Association Federation President Akhtarul Islam also told the media that they had a constructive discussion with Quader.
