Dhaka University (DU) has announced that all academic activities will move online starting Sunday, 30 November, in response to recent seismic activity affecting the campus. The decision aims to ensure the continuity of education while the university assesses the safety of its buildings.
According to a formal notice issued by university authorities, departmental chairpersons and institute directors are instructed to coordinate with their respective deans to facilitate online lectures. This arrangement will remain in effect until further notice, pending the results of a thorough evaluation of the structural integrity of campus buildings.
The move follows an initial closure of physical academic activities until 6 December, prompted by a series of earthquakes and aftershocks that caused visible cracks in several structures on campus. To prevent disruption to the semester schedule, the administration has opted for virtual classrooms, enabling students to continue theoretical coursework remotely. Practical laboratory sessions will be rescheduled once the campus is deemed safe for physical presence.
A specialised team of engineers is conducting a comprehensive inspection of affected infrastructures, focusing on both modern and heritage buildings. Final decisions regarding the upcoming winter vacation will be made only after receiving the technical evaluation report from this inspection committee.
University officials have also advised students living in residential halls to remain vigilant and report any new structural anomalies. The administration is simultaneously preparing a prioritised renovation plan for heritage buildings that suffered significant stress during the tremors.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | Dhaka University |
| Date of Online Transition | Sunday, 30 November |
| Reason | Recent earthquakes and aftershocks causing structural damage |
| Duration | Until further notice |
| Coordination | Departmental chairpersons & institute directors with respective deans |
| Theoretical Classes | Conducted online |
| Practical Sessions | To be rescheduled after campus inspection |
| Residential Halls | Remain open; students advised to report anomalies |
| Safety Measures | Comprehensive structural assessment and prioritised renovation plan |
University authorities have called for cooperation from all stakeholders, including faculty members and students, to navigate this challenging period without compromising the quality of education. The administration stressed that while online classes are a temporary solution, student safety remains the top priority, and all precautionary measures are being implemented to minimise risks.
The transition highlights the university’s adaptive approach to crisis management, balancing academic continuity with structural safety in the wake of natural disasters.