Lockdown Program: Classes and Exams Partially Suspended or Online at Five Universities

Staff Correspondent

Amid the ongoing political unrest in the capital, the Awami League’s announced ‘Dhaka Lockdown’ program, and the recent arson and violence, some private universities in the country have decided to conduct all classes online for November 12 and 13 as part of security precautions.

North South University, East West University, World University of Bangladesh, Shanta-Mariam University of Creative Technology and American International University-Bangladesh announced this decision.

The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh has also announced the suspension of its university bus services.

East West University said in a statement, “Due to unavoidable circumstances, all classes on November 12 and 13 will be held online. No exams will be conducted. Officials and employees will also conduct activities from home.”

World University of Bangladesh has announced that all classes will be held online from November 12 until further notice and university bus services will remain suspended. North South University has decided to hold all classes online from November 13.

“Considering the safety of students, all academic activities on November 12 and 13 are being suspended,” a statement from Shanta-Mariam University said. Further instructions will be communicated via email.

AIUB authorities have also issued a notice suspending scheduled classes and exams for the same reason.

Several incidents of bus arson have taken place in the capital and surrounding areas in the past three days. A bus belonging to Shanta-Mariam University was also damaged in the incident. At least four buses parked in Kashimpur, Sreepur and Ashulia in Gazipur were set on fire. In addition, one person died and two were seriously injured in a bus fire in Mymensingh.

The government has deployed 14 BGB platoons in Dhaka and neighboring districts to control the situation. In addition, the Yunus Sarkar Tribunal is scheduled to announce the verdict in the anti-humanity case on November 13. The administration fears that the verdict will lead to a deterioration in law and order in the capital.

University authorities said that this decision was taken in the interest of student transportation and safety.