Dhaka: A group of students from Jahangirnagar University (JU) commenced an indefinite hunger strike today, calling for the abolition of the ward quota in the university’s admission test. The protest, organized under the banner of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, began in front of the new administrative building at approximately 11 a.m.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the strike initially involved eight students, but more have since joined in solidarity. The demonstrators have committed to continuing their protest until their demands are fully addressed. Nazmul Islam Limon, a student from the Anthropology department and one of the protesters, articulated their goal, stating, “We want a university where students are evaluated only on merit and hard work and where all students have equal opportunities.” He emphasized the need to eliminate the ward quota to foster a fair and equitable education system.
In response, JU Pro-VC (Administration) Prof. Dr. Sohel Ahmed acknowledged the students’ grievances, highlighting previous reforms related to admission test rules and the quota system. He stated, “Today I met the agitating students and heard about their demands, asking them to consider some logical reforms. We will discuss their demand together with the Vice-Chancellor in the administrative body and make a decision.” The university administration is expected to engage with the students’ concerns to reach a resolution.