Dhaka University has moved to implement one of its most extensive emergency responses in recent years, declaring the institution closed for 15 days as a precautionary measure following the latest earthquake and recurring aftershocks. The announcement, made in an official press release on Saturday evening, instructs all students living in residential halls to vacate their rooms by 5 pm on Sunday, allowing specialists to inspect and assess potential structural vulnerabilities.
The emergency Syndicate meeting, convened virtually and presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmad Khan, was dominated by discussions centred on student welfare. Officials highlighted not only the possible physical risks posed by compromised buildings but also the psychological anxiety that has gripped students since the tremors were felt across the capital. The administration stressed that maintaining student safety must override all other considerations.
Experts from BUET, joined by senior officials including the Director of the Planning and Development Office and the Chief Engineer, briefed the Syndicate on preliminary observations. Although no catastrophic structural damage has yet been confirmed, specialists warned that hidden vulnerabilities might remain undetected without detailed engineering assessments. To facilitate this, they recommended that residential halls be cleared so thorough inspections and necessary repair work could be carried out without delay.
Taking these assessments seriously, the Syndicate resolved to suspend all classes, examinations and on-campus academic operations until 6 December. Hall provosts have been instructed to support students in leaving the halls within the designated timeframe, ensuring an orderly and safe evacuation process.
The university has, however, confirmed that administrative offices will stay open, allowing continuity in essential operations, planning and coordination efforts throughout the closure period.
Earlier on Saturday night, at around 9 pm, the university administration had issued a more limited notice announcing the suspension of only Sunday’s academic activities. However, as expert opinions became clearer and concern over building safety intensified, the authorities decided to extend the shutdown significantly. The final decision reflects a proactive attempt to mitigate risks and to reassure students and staff that their well-being remains the institution’s foremost priority.