Earthquake: DU closed till Dec 6; students told to vacate halls

Dhaka University authorities have announced the closure of the institution until 6 December to assess structural risks in its residential halls and carry out necessary repairs following the recent earthquakes. Students residing in the halls have been instructed to vacate the premises by 5pm on Sunday (23 November).

The decision was taken at an emergency virtual meeting of the Syndicate held at 9:00 pm on Saturday (22 November). The information was disclosed in a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Office.

The meeting was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan. Along with Syndicate members, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, the Principal of Dhaka Medical College, the Acting Director of the Planning and Development Office, the Controller of Examinations, and the Chief Engineer were present.

According to the decision, all classes and examinations at the university will remain suspended until 6 December. The university said the move was taken prioritising student safety, noting that students have been physically and mentally distressed by the recent earthquake and subsequent aftershocks.

An analysis of opinions from specialist engineers at BUET found that a thorough inspection and overall risk assessment of the residential halls is essential in the post-earthquake situation. They also recommended vacating the halls to facilitate potential repair work.

As a result, all students currently staying in residential halls have been ordered to leave by 5pm on Sunday (23 November). Hall provosts have been asked to take necessary measures in this regard.

However, the university administration has stated that all offices will remain open as usual.