ULAB Students Demand Reforms Amid National Crisis

Students at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) have issued a series of demands to the university administration, citing the ongoing national crises and their impact on the student body. The demands cover a wide range of issues, from academic policies to campus facilities, and reflect the students’ urgent need for support during these challenging times.

Incident Investigation

Students have called for a thorough investigation into the incidents that occurred on July 16th and 17th, involving an attack by Councilor Asif on students. Witnesses claim that Mr. Shamim, the caterer of ULAB, was also involved in bringing Asif to the campus. The students demand that a case be filed at the police station against those responsible.

Fee Waivers and Reductions

In light of the financial strain caused by recent crises, students are requesting a 35% waiver on course fees for all departments and a 50% reduction in pre-registration fees. They also seek the mitigation of late fines and a reduction in internship course fees by 50%.

Academic Policies

Students are advocating for the replacement of final exams with assignments for the current semester, adherence to UGC-provided CGPA rules, and the removal of CGPA restrictions for taking 15 credits. They also propose a 50% reduction in retake fees and making ESK courses non-mandatory or free.

Campus Facilities and Services

The demands include improvements in high-speed internet availability, proper maintenance of bus schedules, better pay scales for on-campus student jobs, and the establishment of guest rooms for guardians. Students also call for enhanced medical support, security on Beribad Road, and professional behaviour from university staff.

Clubs and Extracurricular Activities

Students request the organization of annual programs, non-mandatory seminars, and career fairs after every semester to support their professional development.

Faculty and Staff

The students emphasize the need for better training for guest faculties and adequate payment and off days for all ULAB staff.

Religious and Cultural Holidays

To respect diverse traditions, students demand a minimum of three to five days of holidays for Durga Puja, Saraswati Puja, and Christmas.

Examinations

Students propose that final exam scripts be shown to them after the results are published to ensure transparency and learning.

CSE Department-Specific Points

For the CSE department, students demand the appointment of a permanent department head, recruitment of more qualified faculties, and the resignation of Ashikur Rahman. They also seek flexibility in choosing between capstone projects, thesis, or internships, and improvements in lab facilities, including high-configuration computers and a dedicated lab for competitive programming.

Context of the Demands

These demands come in the wake of significant national crises, including the Anti-Discrimination movement, which led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and devastating floods in various regions. Many students have been directly affected, losing tuition, and jobs, and even being trapped in flood situations. Despite these hardships, ULAB has continued its classes online and announced final exams as if in normal circumstances, prompting students to call for urgent reforms to avoid further academic and financial distress.

The students’ demands highlight the need for immediate action from the ULAB administration to support their academic journey and well-being during these unprecedented times.