Dhaka University authorities have formally confirmed that residential halls will reopen and regular classroom teaching will resume on 28 December, maintaining the previously declared winter recess while making minor adjustments to the academic calendar. The decision follows extensive technical inspections conducted in the aftermath of the recent earthquake, which raised significant concerns about the structural stability of several university buildings.
The decision was adopted during a meeting of the Deans’ Committee held on Wednesday (3 December), chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan. The university’s Public Relations Office released an official notice summarising the outcomes of the meeting and providing further clarification on academic scheduling.
During the meeting, the committee examined the latest status reports regarding post-earthquake evaluations of residential halls. BUET experts, in collaboration with the university’s engineering department, carried out detailed structural audits to assess possible damage. The inspections resulted in a comprehensive set of recommendations, which were reviewed thoroughly before the committee reached its final decision.
In line with expert advice, the committee confirmed that the winter vacation would proceed as previously declared. However, two additional days—23 and 24 December—have now been incorporated into the holiday period. Classes will resume on 28 December, coinciding with the reopening of the residential halls, allowing students to return to campus and resume their usual academic routines.
The university has clearly stated that no internal examinations will be held during the winter break. Nonetheless, to prevent academic disruption, online instruction will continue until 13 December. This measure is intended to bridge the gap created by the temporary suspension of on-campus activities and to help students stay academically prepared ahead of the new term.
The committee has also decided that examinations will restart during the first week of January. Each department will revise and reschedule its examination timetable following discussions with the relevant faculty dean and in coordination with the Office of the Controller of Examinations. This structured approach aims to avoid confusion and prevent undue pressure on students as they reintegrate into on-campus academic life.
University officials have confirmed that emergency repair and rehabilitation work is ongoing across several residential halls. Following the earthquake, immediate structural evaluations identified multiple areas requiring urgent renovation. Engineers and contractors have been working intensively to ensure that buildings meet safety standards before students return.
However, the authorities have cautioned that some repair work may still be underway even after the halls reopen. Students may therefore encounter temporary inconveniences, and their cooperation has been requested to help ensure that the remaining work proceeds smoothly and efficiently.
The university’s leadership emphasised that the welfare and safety of students remain paramount throughout the decision-making process. By announcing the reopening timeline well in advance, the administration aims to provide clarity and reassurance, enabling students and staff to plan accordingly.
The announcement reflects Dhaka University’s commitment to maintaining academic continuity while ensuring that all necessary safety measures are rigorously followed. The coordinated efforts of engineers, faculty members, and administrative bodies highlight the institution’s determination to recover swiftly from the disruptions caused by the earthquake and restore normal academic operations in a responsible and secure manner.