In a significant development within Bangladesh’s academic landscape, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, has formally tendered his resignation. This move comes a mere five days after the inauguration of the new government, marking a pivotal transition for the nation’s premier educational institution.
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Formal Resignation and Academic Return
On Sunday morning, 22 February 2026, Professor Niaz met with the Minister of Education, Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Huq Milan, to submit his resignation. According to a press release issued by Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Director of the University’s Public Relations Office, the Vice-Chancellor has requested to be relieved of his administrative duties to return to his primary role as a Grade-1 Professor within the Department of Development Studies.
During their meeting, the Education Minister engaged in a detailed dialogue with Professor Niaz regarding the current challenges and future prospects of the university. Dr. Milan sought the Professor’s expert opinion on enhancing research frameworks and educational standards, expressing a desire for continued collaboration despite the leadership change.
A Legacy of Stability
Professor Niaz assumed the mantle of Vice-Chancellor on 27 August 2024, amidst the winds of change following the fall of the Awami League government. His tenure was defined by a commitment to restoring campus security and academic stability during a period of national upheaval.
He had previously hinted at his departure during a press conference on 10 February, stating that he believed the university had reached a “good stage” of recovery under his stewardship. While he expressed a willingness to remain temporarily to ensure a seamless transition, the official handover of his resignation to the President—via the Ministry of Education—signals the definitive end of his term.
Profile of an Academic Stalwart
Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan boasts an illustrious international academic pedigree. Born in 1966, his journey from Chittagong University led him to the United Kingdom, where he earned a PhD in Development Studies from the University of Wales, Swansea, followed by three post-doctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions including Oxford University.
| Feature | Details |
| Full Name | Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan |
| Appointed Date | 27 August 2024 |
| Resignation Date | 22 February 2026 |
| Primary Department | Development Studies (Grade-1 Professor) |
| Doctoral Degree | University of Wales, Swansea, UK |
| Post-Doctoral Research | University of Wales; AIT, Thailand; Oxford University, UK |
| Previous Experience | Pro Vice-Chancellor at IUB; Consultant for World Bank & UN |
Ministerial Acknowledgement
The Ministry of Education confirmed that the resignation letter has been received and will be forwarded to the Chancellor of the University, the President of Bangladesh, for final approval. Education Minister Dr. Milan extended his heartfelt gratitude to Professor Niaz, presenting him with a floral bouquet as a gesture of appreciation for his “extraordinary contribution” to Dhaka University during a critical transitional phase in the country’s history.