The interim government’s Advisory Council has approved the draft ordinance for the establishment of the proposed Dhaka Central University, aimed at integrating seven major government colleges in the capital. The council convened on Thursday at the office of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus in Tejgaon, Dhaka, where he presided over the session.
Following the meeting, the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, briefed the media at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, confirming the council’s decision.
According to the Chief Adviser’s press wing, the primary objective of the ordinance is to bring these seven colleges under a unified academic framework, enhancing the quality of higher education while resolving long-standing administrative complexities. Once enacted, the colleges will operate as affiliated colleges of Dhaka Central University while the university itself will conduct its own academic programmes. Previously, these colleges were affiliated with Dhaka University.
Colleges to be Affiliated with Dhaka Central University:
| No. | College Name | Previous Affiliation | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dhaka College | University of Dhaka | Male students, historic campus |
| 2 | Eden Mohila College | University of Dhaka | Female students |
| 3 | Begum Badrunnessa Govt. Mohila College | University of Dhaka | Female students |
| 4 | Govt. Shaheed Suhrawardy College | University of Dhaka | Mixed student body |
| 5 | Kabi Nazrul Govt. College | University of Dhaka | Arts and general education |
| 6 | Govt. Bangla College | University of Dhaka | General academic programmes |
| 7 | Govt. Titumir College | University of Dhaka | Science and business faculties |
The ordinance ensures that each college retains its unique identity, infrastructure, and property rights. Earlier drafts had proposed school-based academic divisions within each college, including separate schools of science for Dhaka College, Eden Mohila College, and Begum Badrunnessa College; however, this plan has been omitted in the revised draft.
A full administrative structure will be established, including a Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Senate, Syndicate, and Academic Council. The President of Bangladesh will serve as Chancellor, appointing the Vice-Chancellor from a Senate-approved panel. The University Grants Commission (UGC) will oversee academic standards, examinations, research, and administration.
Dhaka Central University will comprise distinct schools in Arts, Science, Social Sciences, Business, Law, and Fine Arts, each led by a Head of School. Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across affiliated colleges will follow a uniform academic calendar and evaluation system. Admission will be based on SSC and HSC results, alongside a central entrance examination.
The ordinance also provides for MPhil and PhD programmes, faculty development initiatives, residential halls, student union elections, and co-curricular activities. Temporary campuses will host university operations until a permanent campus is constructed, with admission and degrees guaranteed free from discrimination based on nationality, religion, race, gender, or disability.
The Secondary and Higher Education Division believes the decision will address decades-long administrative challenges, fostering a coordinated, research-oriented, and modern academic environment in Dhaka. Regular oversight by the UGC will ensure education and research standards meet international benchmarks.
The seven colleges have a history of administrative instability. In 2017, they were shifted from National University to Dhaka University without adequate preparation, leading to student protests and administrative complications. Last January, the government announced the colleges’ separation from Dhaka University, setting the stage for the creation of a new university. The revised ordinance now represents a carefully considered solution following consultations with educators and stakeholders.