
Education and Planning Adviser Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud has stressed the need for students to balance their right to protest with academic responsibilities. Speaking to reporters after attending an Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) meeting, he emphasized that while protests are legitimate, they should not disrupt educational activities or cause public inconvenience. He further clarified that the government would not be pressured into establishing universities due to protests.
The Ecnec meeting, chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, approved 13 projects worth over Tk12,532 crore, including two for gas extraction.
Dr Mahmud also provided an update on the ongoing process to establish a separate university for seven colleges, including Titumir College. He stated that while Titumir College will be part of this initiative, any special consideration would be reserved for Rajshahi College, due to its long history and rich tradition.
In response to queries about Titumir College’s status, Dr Mahmud said, “Universities are not established based on ultimatums or deadlines. We are focused on governance and reform, not meeting demands.” He also mentioned that a special committee has been formed to develop a university model for the seven colleges.
Dr Mahmud concluded by reiterating that demanding a deadline for university establishment was unreasonable, and the government would not entertain demands that could have long-term negative consequences.