All Universities Nationwide to Remain Closed from Tomorrow

In response to the ongoing war in the Middle East and the resulting pressure on global energy supplies, the government has decided to close all public and private universities across Bangladesh starting tomorrow, Monday (9 March). The closure, ordered by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, advances the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday period to prioritize electricity and fuel conservation.

The decision was communicated by the Ministry of Education on Sunday (8 March).

The directive states: “In the current global crisis, it is essential to conserve electricity and fuel at the national level. To ensure responsible and energy-efficient behaviour among officials and employees in all public and private universities, classes and academic activities will remain suspended from 9 March until the end of the government-declared Eid-ul-Fitr holiday period, in line with the instructions from the Cabinet Division and in observance of the holy month of Ramadan.”

See the notification:

The ministry has instructed universities to strictly follow these specific energy-saving guidelines during the closure period:

• Avoid using electric lights during the day when sufficient natural light is available; keep windows and doors open to maximize natural light.
• Reduce the use of existing lighting by half.
• Eliminate unnecessary or excess lighting.
• Switch off extra lights, fans, air conditioners, and other electrical appliances when not required during office hours.
• Set air conditioners (where used) to 25°C or higher.
• Turn off all lights, fans, air conditioners, and electrical equipment when leaving offices or rooms.
• Stop unnecessary lighting in corridors, staircases, washrooms, and other common areas.
• Use energy-efficient appliances wherever possible.
• Ensure all electrical equipment (lights, fans, computers, printers, scanners, air conditioners, etc.) is switched off at the end of office hours.
• Avoid decorative or unnecessary lighting.
• Limit vehicle use and practice fuel conservation.

The measure aims to significantly reduce national energy consumption during the current period of international instability and high fuel prices, while aligning with the upcoming Eid holiday.