Rashid Dinar, general secretary candidate from the Swatantra Shikkharthi Sammelan panel in the upcoming Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (Cucsu) election, has pledged to work toward transforming the university into a “full-fledged and lively university”, if elected.
In an interview with The Daily Star, Dinar, a former joint coordinator of Students Against Discrimination, said he has always stood by students whenever needed.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star’s Google News channel. “I was at the forefront of the July movement, as students witnessed it. I never compromised with anyone. Whenever required, I spoke to the administration and others on behalf of the students without backing down on logical demands,” said Dinar, a master’s student of History department.
He added that students know him well and have been responding positively. “They understand who can really work for their rights and who dares to speak up, no matter what. I believe they will choose the right candidate through their votes.”
Dinar said many members of his panel were coordinators or joint coordinators of the July movement. “We formed our panel based on each member’s expertise, and we believe students will appreciate our lineup,” he said.
Outlining his plans, Dinar said, “A one-year term isn’t long. We haven’t included anything unrealistic in our manifesto. Some things can be done quickly, while others will take time — but we will at least start the process.”
He identified accommodation and transportation as the most pressing issues at CU. “Then comes food. Even after paying, we don’t get quality food here. I will give special emphasis to improving food quality,” he said.
He also vowed to ensure campus safety so that students no longer feel insecure. “Alongside, I will work on improving the academic environment, research, and other fundamental issues.”
“Chittagong University occupies 2,300 acres of land. Yet even after 60 years of establishment, it hasn’t ensured proper accommodation for all students — only about 20 to 22 percent have housing facilities. We call CU a ‘half university’, as most teachers and students leave after noon. I will work to make it a lively, full-fledged, and fully residential university,” he said.
Regarding the Cucsu polls, Dinar said, “We want a positive change in student politics — one free from domination and based on democratic principles. The Cucsu election is being held after 35 years. Our first pledge is to include it in the university’s academic calendar to ensure regular elections.”
He alleged that some groups are getting undue advantages while some candidates are violating the election code of conduct without facing action.
“We see one organisation always working under the administration’s influence. They never stand up for students’ rights. Students know this well and will surely elect the deserving representatives,” Dinar added.
