Universities must not be politicised: Nahid

Opposition Chief Whip and National Citizen Party Convener Nahid Islam yesterday (7 May) urged everyone, regardless of political affiliation, to come forward to ensure that universities are not politicised.

“If universities are not strong, other state institutions also cannot function properly. Therefore, everyone, regardless of political affiliation, must come forward. Freedom of expression must be ensured, and care must be taken to ensure that universities are not politicised,” he said during a courtesy meeting with Chittagong University Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammad Al-Forkan.

During the meeting, they discussed various issues, including the current academic environment of the university, campus discipline, students’ safety, research and the improvement of higher education standards.

At the meeting, the VC sought cooperation from all quarters to make the university’s administrative and academic activities more dynamic. 

He said, “We are always striving to maintain a proper academic environment at Chittagong University and improve the standards of research and higher education. With everyone’s cooperation and collective efforts, we want to take this university to a unique level of success.”

Nahid said, “During the previous regime, our relationship with VCs was one of hostility, like that of master and servant. We must ensure that such a situation does not arise again in the future.”

He continued, “As a political party, we also have plans regarding universities. We will urge the government to increase budget allocations for universities and provide more funding for the research sector in the upcoming budget.”

The NCP leader recalled the role of the university’s students during the July Uprising and praised the natural beauty of the university’s campus.

He also expressed hope for improving the quality of education, maintaining a healthy academic environment, strengthening relations with locals and resolving the housing crisis at the university.