“DUJA has played a courageous role in every important moment, from the July Uprising to the DUCSU elections,” said VP Kayem. “The cooperation of the Journalists’ Association is essential to transform DUCSU into a truly representative institution of students in the future.”
He made these remarks on Thursday afternoon (September 18) at a greeting exchange ceremony with the Dhaka University Journalists’ Association held at the DUCSU cafeteria.
VP Kayem further stated that party-based syndicates have taken root at every level of the university’s administration. “Initiatives will be taken to break up these syndicates and formulate policies to regularize DUCSU elections. Just as the academic calendar ensures semester schedules, DUCSU elections should also be held on a mandatory timeline,” he said. “We want elections every year so that DUCSU becomes a truly democratic institution through student participation.”
He also recalled DUJA’s role during the July Uprising, noting that while few dared to resist the Chhatra League’s repression during Sheikh Hasina’s rule, DUJA members raised their voices through their writings. “During the elections too, journalists worked tirelessly to protect voters’ trust and uphold the democratic process,” he added.
At the event, DUCSU Vice President Farhad announced the launch of a “Digital Complaint Box” to address students’ problems. He also revealed plans to improve the quality of canteen food, provide training for staff and managers, and audit all financial activities of DUCSU.
General Secretary (GS) SM Farhad emphasized inclusivity, saying, “We don’t want to divide anyone into Shibir, Muslim, Hindu, or any other identity. Our goal is to work together in the interest of the students.” He also stressed that DUCSU would press for reforms wherever syndicates exist, including the cafeteria, registrar’s office, and research library.
During the discussion, DUJA President Mohiuddin Mujahid Mahi said, “Although DUCSU representatives are members of the Senate, they are not part of the Syndicate. Yet all key decisions come from the Syndicate. If DUCSU’s elected representatives are included in the Syndicate, students’ interests will be reflected more strongly.”
