Teachers’ pension, students’ quota must not halt academic activities Govt should deal with prudence

JUST as Bangladesh’s Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams commenced, a wave of protests has swept across the universities around the country, throwing a wrench into academic schedules and highlighting simmering discontent within the educational system.

Two distinct groups, university teachers and students, have taken to the streets, each voicing strong concerns and effectively halting classes and examinations.

Public university teachers are at the forefront of one protest, launching an indefinite strike on July 1st.

Their primary grievance centers on the recently introduced “Prottoy” pension scheme. The teachers’ association fears the scheme will significantly reduce their retirement benefits, including bonuses and provident fund contributions. They argue that such cuts will not only impact their financial security but also deter talented individuals from pursuing teaching careers in public universities.

This strike is the culmination of months of growing frustration.

The teachers’ association has employed various tactics since the scheme’s announcement in March, including half-day strikes and full-day work stoppages, even during exam periods. However, with their demands seemingly unheard, they have escalated their actions to an indefinite strike, effectively paralysing academic activities.

Adding to the disruption, university students have launched their own protests against the reinstatement of the quota system for government jobs. A recent High Court decision overturned a 2018 government directive abolishing the quota for children of freedom fighters in certain government positions. This has reignited student discontent with the quota system, which they perceive as unfair and hindering merit-based recruitment.

The combined effect of these protests has been a major disruption to university life. Classes and exams have been suspended, leaving students in limbo and creating uncertainty about the academic calendar. University authorities are caught in the middle, urging the government to address the concerns of both teachers and students to ensure a swift return to normalcy.

Finding a solution that addresses both sets of grievances will be crucial. The government needs to engage in meaningful dialogue with both parties. For the teachers, a potential compromise could involve modifications to the “Prottoy” scheme that ensure adequate retirement benefits while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

As for the quota system, a thorough review and reform process, perhaps involving the proposed committee, could pave the way for a more balanced and transparent system tignoring historical injustices while promoting merit.