KUET shutdown: No classes in almost 3 months

Students of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology yesterday demonstrated demanding resumption of academic activities.

They staged a sit-in near the entrance of the administrative building in the afternoon.

"No classes have been held in almost three months. This is a major setback to our student life. It may even affect our career," said civil engineering student Rahatul Islam.

The impasse began on February 18 when several students were assaulted on campus allegedly by a group of outsiders. No classes have been held since then.

Amid demonstrations, the government relieved the VC of his duties last month. And Kuet syndicate members decided that academic activities would resume on May 4. But on May 5, the Kuet Teachers' Association told a press briefing that they would not return to classrooms unless "those who disrespect teachers" are punished.

The university authorities last week asked 37 students to explain their conduct. Yesterday evening, the students submitted a joint response.

The teachers association said it would observe the situation over the weekend, and announce their next course of action on Sunday.

Professor Faruq Hossain, general secretary of the association, said, "The university administration is taking necessary steps. We are ready to return to classes. We hope classes will resume on Sunday. But it is difficult to say what will happen if a new complication arises."