Editorial
Turmoil at JU worrisome
Interest of the students is paramount
The unrest between two opposing factions of Jahangirnagar University teachers has thrown academic life on the campus in disarray. In its most recent ramification, BCL cadres were seen to foil agitating teachers' demonstration programmes as they laid siege to the vice chancellor's residence. We are shocked to see things come down to this level where students' academic activities have virtually ground to a halt.
For all we know, one faction of the teachers' group, since the killing of fourth year student Zubair Ahmed allegedly by BCL cadres, has been demonstrating for over three months now demanding the vice chancellor's resignation on the grounds including those of corruption and massive irregularities. Another group supporting the VC, however, has been resisting the agitating teachers' group. While teachers are busy upholding their conflicting agendas, students are caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. Shouldn't teachers, instead of squabbling, be thinking of more innovative ways to ignite students' inquisitive minds? We wonder what model the students have in their teachers to emulate and look up to.
The agitating teachers may well have a point as far as allegations of corruption and malpractice go. Taking extreme measures to realize their goals does not seem to be a step in the right direction. All they should look for is an end to politicization so that a healthy environment for study and research prevails. Likewise, the opposing teachers' faction should not exploit any BCL clout. Instead, they should iron out their differences to bring themselves on a common platform.
We think the education ministry should take the responsibility and look into the agitating teachers' allegation to find a way out for resuming the academic activities. The general students' academic life and the university's reputation must not be allowed to suffer.
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