Keep dorms open during exams
Students of Rajshahi University (RU) have urged authorities to reopen dormitories, ensuring health guidelines, during the honours and master's final examinations, which are scheduled to start from January 2.
The clamour for reopening dorms has been growing amid students, in the wake of the authority's decision to hold exams without reopening residential halls, citing the pandemic.
Talking to The Daily Star recently, students termed the university's decision illogical. They said a majority of students -- particularly those from far-flung areas of the country -- cannot afford to pay rent for off-campus accommodation. It will be an extra burden for their families during the pandemic.
Suborno, a student of 2015-16 session, said, "We can't rent a house or mess for just one month, as landlords demand security deposit. So, most of us must stay at a friend's or relative's place, which can be risky during the pandemic."
Some students, however, opposed the demand, saying students need to prioritise their necessities. They should sit for the exams by any means to avoid session jam and start their career.
Leaders of student organisations also demanded halls be reopened on a limited scale.
Mehedee Hasan Mishu, organising secretary of BCL, RU unit, said the decision to keep halls closed is against students' interests.
Mohabbat Hossain Milon, general secretary of Chhatra Federation, said authorities may open halls only for examinees by ensuring health precautions.
Prof Lutfor Rahman, student advisor (additional duty) at RU, said, "We were instructed by UGC to take exams, while keeping halls closed. If we open them during exams, students from different areas of the country will come to campus and stay together, which may cause an outbreak."
Comments