Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Resigns Intends

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Niyaz Ahmed Khan has announced his intention to step down from his position, citing the completion of a significant phase of responsibility and the desire to facilitate a smooth transition.

Speaking at a press briefing held this afternoon in the Professor Abdul Matin Chowdhury Virtual Classroom, adjacent to the Vice-Chancellor’s office, Khan said, “I now feel that we have reached a positive stage in fulfilling our duties, and it is time for me to step aside.”

Highlighting the university’s stature, Khan emphasised that Dhaka University remains a national institution, whose major decisions and activities are presented transparently before the nation. In keeping with this tradition, he appeared before the media to outline his plans and reasoning regarding his role as Vice-Chancellor.

Reflecting on the circumstances under which he assumed office, Khan recalled taking charge in late August 2024, during an extremely critical period. At that time, the university was virtually paralysed: academic operations had stalled, residential halls were in a state of flux, and the administrative framework was largely ineffective. In response, his primary task was to restart academic activities and stabilise the university’s operations.

Nearly 18 months into his tenure, Khan noted, the university has made considerable progress. “Through the cooperation of all stakeholders, and with the goodwill of our academic and administrative community, we have successfully navigated the emergency conditions and set the university on an upward trajectory,” he said. While acknowledging that some limitations persist, he asserted that the institution is now in a significantly improved state compared to the crisis period in which he assumed office.

Khan stressed that his decision to resign is driven by a sense of responsibility and the desire to maintain continuity. “It is essential that there be no vacuum or disruption,” he explained. “If the government or university stakeholders feel that a brief extension is necessary to ensure a smooth transition, I am willing to consider this in the best interest of the university.”

The table below summarises the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure and achievements:

Khan’s announcement marks a pivotal moment in Dhaka University’s administration. His tenure, characterised by crisis management and efforts to restore institutional stability, is widely regarded as a period of consolidation. The process of appointing a successor is expected to proceed with due diligence, ensuring the university continues its academic and administrative momentum without interruption.