IU teachers threaten to go on strike Saturday

4 March 2009, 18:00 PM

Our Correspondent, Kushtia

Islami University Teachers Association (IUTA) yesterday decided to go on total strike programme from Saturday if the authorities concerned fail to meet their demand for appointing vice chancellor. Earlier on Tuesday, IUTA leaders started their class boycott programme on the issue. Vice chancellor Prof Foyez Mohammad Serajul Haque resigned on January 15 and University Treasurer Prof Dr Anwarul Haq started working as the acting VC in addition on his regular duties as per written instruction from Prof Foyez. However, the treasurer's assignment ended on January 30. With the university's highest decision making post lying vacant for over a month, work at different sections and departments is being hampered. Different examinations have remained postponed while publication of results of at least 20 departments has been suspended. Earlier the teachers association gave a 10-day ultimatum on the issue and warned of tougher movement if the demand was not met within the deadline that ended on Monday. Mahbubul Arefin, general secretary of Shapla Forum, an alliance of progressive teachers of the university, urged the prime minister to take immediate steps for appointment of vice chancellor considering interest of 12,000 students of the university.