Classes and exams resume at CU amid low student presence

Academic activities have resumed at Chittagong University (CU) following a period of disruption, with examinations currently underway in nine departments. However, student turnout on campus remains noticeably low.

According to university officials, both classes and exams restarted on Wednesday, marking a return to the academic calendar after recent clashes on campus.

A visit to several key campus locations—including Zero Point, Suhrawardy Mor, Shaheed Minar, the Sociology Jhopri, and the Arts Jhopri—revealed an unusually quiet atmosphere. These areas, typically teeming with student activity, appeared largely deserted.

Classrooms across several faculties, including the Faculty of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, and the Faculty of Business Administration, were mostly empty. Only a few departments were seen conducting regular academic activities and examinations.

Professor Dr. Amirul Islam, Chairman of the Economics Department, attributed the low attendance to the academic cycle, “many departments have completed their academic calendar, so exams have begun. Some departments are nearing completion. Naturally, attendance is lower during this period.”

Professor Momtaz Uddin, Acting Controller of Examinations, confirmed the start of exams in selected departments. He said “exams resumed today in nine departments following the recent unrest. Departments have been granted autonomy to decide whether to conduct or postpone exams based on students’ mental readiness.”

Meanwhile, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Dr. Mohammad Shamim Uddin Khan assured that academic activities will now continue without interruption. he said “from now on, classes will proceed regularly. As per university regulations, even injured students will be allowed to take part in examinations.”

While classes and exams are officially back in session, the visibly low student presence reflects the lingering effects of recent tensions on campus.