Students Shut Down Bangladesh Polytechnic Institutes Over Technical Education Reform Demands

Dhaka

All polytechnic institutes across Bangladesh have shut down following a nationwide protest by students demanding reforms in technical education. The Technical Students' Movement, representing both public and private technical institutions, initiated the shutdown on Tuesday, citing long-standing unmet demands.

Protests intensified as students of the Dhaka Polytechnic Institute locked academic buildings, the principal's office, and the main entrance gate. They also chanted slogans throughout the morning to rally support. Similar actions were reported from other institutions, where students halted academic and administrative operations by locking administration buildings.

We have received assurances at various times. However, we have not seen any steps taken to fulfill our demands, a student protester told The Business Standard. As a result, we have been forced to announce a shutdown programme.

The protest movement has been gaining momentum since April 16. Last week, demonstrators blocked roads, highways, and railway lines in various districts, causing major traffic disruptions and affecting daily life across the country. In response, the Ministry of Education formed a committee to create a roadmap for implementing the students' six-point demand.

However, after a brief pause in protests on April 22, students resumed their movement the following day, stating that no substantial progress had been made. The situation remains tense as the shutdown continues, affecting thousands of students and staff members. Authorities have urged for dialogue and a peaceful resolution to the crisis.