Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology teachers on Saturday sought intervention of the prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, in the removal of  the vice-chancellor and the abolition of the pro-vice-chancellor’s position for which they have been on strike since April 17.
‘We will call off the strike the day after the prime minister takes initiatives to meet our demands,’ the BUET Teachers’ Association president, Md Mujibur Rahman, told New Age.
A general meeting in the Civil Engineering Building seminar room that was attended by about 250 teachers decided to continue with their strike until the demands are met.
The teachers also brought out a silent procession on the campus.
‘We are eager to return to classrooms but we cannot do so until the demands are met,’ Mujibur said adding that teachers had expressed no confidence in the incumbent vice-chancellor and the pro-vice-chancellor.
He alleged that chaotic situation was prevailing in the administrative building as files and documents had been loaded in the buildings. ‘No teacher will get back to the classroom in such circumstances.’
No classes, examinations and other academic activities were held for the 21 consecutive day on Saturday.
The vice-chancellor, on the other hand, said that the ‘illogical’ demands of the striking teachers would not be fulfilled.
‘If their demands are met, they will pick up another issue and go on strike,’ the vice-chancellor said. ‘The teachers’ association is trying to disrupt academic activities with baseless allegations.’
‘I have not made any mistakes in administration as the government and the syndicate appoint men in the administration.’ he said adding that he would resign only when the government wants him to.