DU Vice-Chancellor Announces Resignation a Day Before Election

He made the formal announcement during a press conference held on Tuesday, February 10, at the Professor Abdul Matin Chowdhury Virtual Classroom, located adjacent to the VC’s office. Although the Vice-Chancellor declared his intent to step down, he noted that he has not yet officially submitted a formal resignation letter. This unexpected move from the head of the nation’s premier academic institution has sparked intense speculation across university circles and the national political landscape.

Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan’s appointment followed the historic student-led uprising on August 5, 2024, which led to the fall of the Awami League government. Following the resignation of the then-VC, Professor Dr. Maksud Kamal, on August 10, Dr. Khan—a former Chairman of the Development Studies Department—was appointed as the interim Vice-Chancellor on August 27 via a Ministry of Education notification. His tenure, authorized by the President and Chancellor under the Dhaka University Order of 1973, was marked by efforts to stabilize the campus and implement administrative reforms during a turbulent transition period.

During the press conference, Dr. Khan did not disclose specific reasons for his departure or outline the next administrative steps. Given the timing—on the eve of a crucial national election—analysts consider the move highly significant. Rumors are circulating regarding whether the exit of the administrative head of such a sensitive institution hints at broader shifts or pressures. As of now, neither the Ministry of Education nor the Chancellor’s Office has responded to the announcement. Technically, Dr. Khan remains in charge until his formal resignation is submitted and accepted.