Agroup of students from seven colleges has staged a protest by blocking the Science Lab intersection in Dhaka, advocating for the establishment of an independent university separate from Dhaka University. The blockade has led to significant traffic congestion in the area.
The protest commenced around 1pm on Monday (21 October).
Prior to the blockade, students gathered at Dhaka College to participate in the movement.
At approximately 11:30am, they commenced a procession from Dhaka College, first marching to the Science Lab intersection and subsequently proceeding through Nilkhet, Eden College, and Azimpur Roundabout before returning to block the road at Science Lab.
During the demonstration, the students chanted slogans such as "I have given my blood, I will give more blood," "Injustice will be washed away in the flood of blood," "We want to fight, we want to survive," and "We reject the commercialisation of education; I will not accept it." They also voiced their grievances regarding the financial aspects of their education, asserting that funds allocated for their welfare should be directed towards establishing a new hall at Dhaka University.
The students expressed their discontent, stating, "We believe that after many years of affiliation, the quality of higher education for students of the seven colleges under Dhaka University has not reflected our hopes and aspirations. Therefore, it is futile to maintain such affiliation."
They further articulated their frustration, saying, "We are currently left without identity. Our college does not take responsibility, nor does Dhaka University. There is no avenue for voicing our complaints or finding solutions. We seek liberation from this state. We demand the formation of an independent university comprising the seven prestigious colleges."
The students have warned that if their demands for the declaration of an independent university are not met, they will continue their protests.
