Professor at Bangladesh Agricultural University Dismissed Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Staff Reporter

Dr. M. Harun-or-Rashid, a senior professor in the Agricultural Economics Department at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), has been dismissed from his position following allegations of sexual harassment by a Malaysian student.

The university issued an official statement on Thursday, confirming the dismissal. Dr. Harun-or-Rashid was also the elected president of the BNP-affiliated teachers’ association, *Sonali Dal*.

According to the university, the allegations were investigated by a committee formed after a complaint was lodged by the student, Priscilla Priyanka, a veterinary faculty member. Based on the committee’s recommendations, the BAU syndicate convened an emergency meeting on October 14, 2024, where initial actions were taken. However, Dr. Harun’s response to the allegations was deemed unsatisfactory. Subsequently, during the 327th syndicate meeting on December 30, the decision to terminate his employment was finalized. This decision took effect on February 13, 2025.

The allegations stem from an incident reported on September 25, 2024. The Malaysian student claimed in her complaint to the university’s vice-chancellor that Dr. Harun repeatedly visited her residence uninvited, sent inappropriate messages, and attempted to enter her home at odd hours. She stated that the harassment severely impacted her mental and physical well-being, disrupted her studies, and prevented her from taking examinations.

Following the complaint, a five-member committee was formed to investigate the matter. Based on their findings, Dr. Harun was temporarily suspended on October 14, pending further investigation.

The student subsequently left Bangladesh, abandoning her studies in late September 2024. Before her departure, she filed complaints with both the Malaysian High Commission and local law enforcement, citing concerns for her safety.

This incident has sparked widespread discussion regarding the safety of international students in Bangladesh and the need for stronger measures to prevent harassment within academic institutions.