The Ministry of Education has directed Jagannath University (JnU) to take immediate steps to resolve its student accommodation crisis. As part of the directive issued on Thursday, the university was asked to rent nearby houses as temporary dormitories to ensure students have a stable residential environment.
The instructions were part of a review meeting on the ongoing "Establishment of New Campus of Jagannath University: Land Acquisition and Development" project. The ministry emphasized expediting land acquisition by maintaining close communication with the Dhaka District Administration.
Additionally, JnU was instructed to appoint a Director (Planning and Development) to serve as the Project Director, subject to approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC). The ministry also proposed involving the Bangladesh Army for pending procurement tasks under the current project and future second-phase development.
The directives further encouraged the university to seek support from philanthropic organizations for infrastructure development. JnU was asked to increase its operational budget through UGC and submit proposals to the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education for approval.
To ensure accountability, the UGC was tasked with forming an investigation committee to address corruption allegations within the current project.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Rezaul Karim welcomed the ministry’s instructions, stating, “We are already working on these issues. The recent student movements have highlighted the urgency, and we are committed to a quick resolution.”
He also clarified confusion regarding the project’s title, affirming that future projects would specify the term "second campus."
JnU student Shamim Islam expressed hope, saying, “This directive is promising. We want a stable environment where our rights are respected.”
The ministry’s measures aim to address the growing demand for student housing while advancing the university’s development plans.
