Jahangirnagar URP Exams Delayed Over Faculty Row

The final examinations of the 48th batch postgraduate students in the Urban and Regional Planning (URP) department at Jahangirnagar University have been indefinitely delayed due to internal disputes among the faculty, despite classes concluding three months ago.

According to affected students, while all other departments have completed postgraduate exams for the 48th batch, theirs have not yet begun. Repeated appeals to university authorities have yet to yield any concrete actions.

Timeline of Events:

Students Voice Frustration

One student from the 48th batch, speaking anonymously, told the press:

“We are paying the price for internal faculty disputes. If this is not resolved soon, we will be forced to stage protests.”

Origin of the Dispute

The rift reportedly intensified in April 2025, when Sajid Iqbal, a student of the 49th batch, alleged that he was intentionally given lower marks on his thesis evaluation by Professor Shafique-ur-Rahman and Associate Professor Lutfor Rahman. He further claimed that Associate Professor Afsana Haque had influenced them and also accused her of being involved in exam question leaks.

These allegations led to the formation of factions within the department, effectively paralysing regular academic processes.

Administrative and Faculty Perspectives

• Professor Kasfia Nahrin, Chair of the 48th Batch Exam Committee, told the media:

“We have requested exam questions from relevant teachers. The department chair has been uncooperative. A probe committee is investigating how confidential matters were leaked, damaging the department’s reputation. Once resolved, exams can proceed.”

• Professor Shafique-ur-Rahman echoed these sentiments, noting that:

“Due to suspicions of leaked confidential documents involving the department chair, most faculty members, barring 2–3, have withdrawn from exam duties.”

• Professor Anisa Nuri, the department chair, could not be reached for comment.

Investigation and University Action

• Professor Mahbub Kabir, Dean of the Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences and head of the investigation committee, confirmed that:

“The investigation is nearing completion, and the report will be submitted soon.”

• Acting Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman acknowledged the situation:

“This stalemate has resulted from internal divisions among faculty. The Vice-Chancellor is currently abroad, but upon his return, we plan to convene an administrative meeting to resolve the matter. A department cannot be allowed to function in this way.”

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