The New Nation - Internet Edition

"It is nice to be back to the (University) campus almost after two months," this was the common expression of feelings of the general students on the day of reopening of Dhaka University after the prolonged closure following campus violence instigated by a section of highly politicised teachers and students.

However, the students on the campus were seen embracing each other, exchanging pleasantries with their friends and classmates. The whole scene wore a festive look usually reminiscent of homecoming after a long time!

It was even more reassuring that the classes were held with spontaneous participation of the teachers and significantly high attendance of students. Some examinees thoughtfully occupied their places in the central library to prepare for their examinations. The campus was brimming with students who looked so inspired to have come back to their dear educational institution.

These are the vast majority of the students who come to the university for academic pursuits under the guidance of the able and dedicated teachers.

Dhaka University teachers are undoubtedly among the best in the international context also. Sadly, minuscule few who joined Dhaka University for exploiting its good name are not fit temperamentally to be teachers.

They were fomenting agitational politics among the misguided students. Thus the academic atmosphere of Dhaka University became too much vitiated for the good of the students. At times it was impossible for academic activities to go on. The general students who come to study and build for themselves a bright future felt unsafe and insecure.

The glory of Dhaka University was tarnished badly by a few teachers' activism. Now, in the changed situation with the absence of few teachers, Dhaka University's academic atmosphere has improved beyond belief. The students are most happy. Their parents welcome the change.

We urge all concerned to do everything to preserve this happy atmosphere at Dhaka University. We do not want to see university teachers convicted for unruly behaviour. Although nobody is above the law, we do not want to see as teachers those who are not temperamentally fit. We also do not want respected teachers to be punished for criminal offences.

The most honourable option for such teachers will be to resign voluntarily. Surely they are competent enough to find jobs elsewhere.

But Dhaka University must be saved. The teachers must set good examples for their students