‘DUCSU candidates up to 40yrs old eligible if enrolled in MPhil’

Clearing confusion surrounding age limits for the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, Chief Returning Officer Professor Dr. Mohammad Jashim Uddin has confirmed that students regularly enrolled in MPhil or Master’s programs can contest the election regardless of their age—even if they are 40 years old.

In an exclusive interview on June 25, Dr. Jashim Uddin stated, “The DUCSU constitution does not specify any age limit for candidates. A student enrolled as a regular student in an MPhil or Master’s program is eligible to run. Ultimately, the choice lies with the student community.”

Responding to ongoing debates about age, the Chief Returning Officer emphasized that leadership qualities, students’ trust, and regular enrollment status remain the key qualifications for candidates, not their age.

Questions have been raised after the university issued a second MPhil admission notice shortly before the election. While MPhil admissions usually occur once annually, this new announcement has sparked allegations of bias and favoritism.

University officials explained that the second admission call was necessary due to lower-than-expected applicant numbers in January. Nevertheless, some students suspect the move aims to enable long-term students to participate, as no age limit applies.

Dr. Jashim Uddin revealed that two meetings with active student organizations will be held on June 26 to finalize the election schedule for both DUCSU and Hall Union polls.

“The Election Commission alone has the authority to announce the schedule,” he said. “We seek a transparent, participatory election that reflects all stakeholders’ opinions.”

Following the controversial 2019 DUCSU election, many students faced delays in results and academic disruptions, raising uncertainty about their eligibility as candidates.

Dr. Jashim Uddin assured, “We will clarify any confusion through dialogue with student organizations and communicate with the administration accordingly.”

The Election Commission includes the Chief Returning Officer and ten returning officers appointed from each hall to oversee election activities. A recent meeting with hall provosts focused on election management, security, and administrative cooperation.

Dr. Jashim Uddin compared the election process to a train journey: “To reach the destination without interruption, comprehensive preparation is essential. We must begin now to ensure a successful election.”

While students remain politically active, the Chief Returning Officer expressed concern over their indifference toward environmental issues and overall university development.

“Dhaka University students are more aware of elections than environmental challenges,” he said. “We hope they will contribute equally to societal and institutional progress.”