Barishal University teacher begins hunger strike over faculty crisis, stalled promotions

A teacher at the University of Barishal has begun an indefinite hunger strike demanding resolution of long-standing faculty shortages and delayed promotions, with colleagues warning of further agitation if the demands are not met.

Professor Dr Md Jamal Uddin of the Soil, Water, and Environment Department started the hunger strike yesterday evening in front of the vice-chancellor's office at the administrative building. Around 150 teachers from at least 25 departments have expressed solidarity with his demands.

Teachers said the university has more than 12,000 students across 25 departments but lacks adequate faculty members, creating excessive workload and mental stress. About 60 teachers have reportedly completed all required procedures for promotion, but their cases have not been placed before the syndicate, and the promotion selection board has not started work for the past two years, leaving them deprived of advancement.

Dr Jamal fell ill around noon and received primary medical care at the protest site, confirmed teachers.

Rahaat Hossain Faisal, a teacher at the university, said that out of 211 teachers, around 60 teachers are currently on leave, leaving roughly 150 faculty members to manage academic activities.

"Each teacher is taking 10 to 12 classes, which is unsustainable," he said, adding that prolonged delays in promotions and lack of new recruitment have pushed many into distress.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Toufiq Alam said discussions have already been held with the University Grants Commission (UGC) regarding the matter. He added that teachers have submitted proposals, and the authorities are working on a solution.

He said an academic council meeting is scheduled for April 28, followed by a syndicate meeting, where the issue is expected to be discussed.

"We requested the protesting teacher to wait until these meetings," he said.

The vice-chancellor also pointed out that complications have arisen due to inconsistencies between the university's internal promotion policy and the UGC's minimum guidelines approved in 2021, which require at least five years of experience for promotion from associate professor to professor.

Teachers warned that if their demands are not met, they will announce a stricter programme, including a boycott of classes and examinations from tomorrow.