Dhaka University (DU) students formed a human chain demanding 100pc residential facilities and valid seats from the first year. The human chain took place today, Sunday, at 11 am at the foot of the anti-terrorist Raju sculpture.
Fathima Tuj Jannati Deepa, a student of the Islamic History and Culture Department, spoke at the event. Other speakers included Fatima Islam Bonna from the Psychology Department, Arifa Akhter Asha from the Islamic History and Culture Department, and Nusrat Jahan Nupur from the Philosophy Department, among others.
Fatima Islam Bonna criticized the administration, saying, “Despite ending political occupation, the seat crisis remains, proving administrative failure. The per capita allocation for students raises questions about the benefits provided by the hall authorities and their accountability.”
Arifa Akhter Asha highlighted the difficulties faced by students from low-income families, stating, “DU is a public university with students from all classes. How can a student from a low-income family afford the cost of living outside? What about the safety of those living off-campus?”
Nusrat Jahan Nupur pointed out the lack of residential facilities for female students. “Both male and female students are admitted based on merit, but there are only 5 halls for women compared to 12 for men. This shows the administration’s neglect towards female students’ accommodation.”
Armanul Haque, a student of the International Relations Department, suggested solutions to the crisis. “The administration can resolve the housing crisis if they want. They can use short-term methods like renting buildings temporarily and adopt long-term solutions by constructing new halls.”
The students urged the university administration to take immediate steps to address the housing crisis and ensure safe and affordable accommodation for all students.
