Proposed Dhaka Central University combining seven colleges: Support from vice-chancellors, opposition from alumni

According to the meeting sources, most vice-chancellors of existing public universities expressed support for the proposed model, giving opinions on appointing a vice-chancellor for the new university, recruiting faculty, coordinating academic programs across the seven colleges, and providing education for female students. Some also suggested amendments to certain legal provisions.

However, alumni of the colleges expressed opposition, fearing that converting the seven colleges into a university would reduce admission opportunities for students, potentially driving many to enroll in private universities.

An official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told The Daily Campus, “The primary opposition comes from college alumni. Most vice-chancellors and other stakeholders have supported the model. Some have also suggested legal amendments. We will observe and review these issues.”

On March 26 this year, the interim government announced the formation of a new public university, Dhaka Central University, by integrating seven colleges, and the University Grants Commission (UGC) approved the proposed name.

The seven colleges are: Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, Begum Badrunnesa Government Women’s College, Shaheed Suhrawardy College, Kabi Nazrul Government College, Mirpur Bangla College, and Government Titumir College.

After the meeting, the Ministry of Education recorded the issues in notes and plans to complete the necessary legal and administrative procedures.