All Universities Closed from Today for Energy Conservation Amid Middle East War

All public and private universities across Bangladesh, including the National University, will remain closed starting today, Monday (9 March), as part of the government’s urgent measures to conserve electricity and fuel amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.

The Ministry of Education issued the directive on Sunday (8 March), advancing the Eid-ul-Fitr holiday period in line with Cabinet Division instructions and in observance of the holy month of Ramadan.

The closure will continue until the end of the government-declared Eid holiday period as per each university’s academic calendar.

Essential Services to Continue on Limited Scale

While regular academic activities and most offices will remain suspended, limited operations will continue in critical departments to handle urgent matters. These include:

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Administration
• Finance and Accounts
• Discipline and Security
• Medical Services
• Examination Control
• College Inspection
• Legal Affairs

Strict Energy-Saving Guidelines Issued

The Ministry has outlined detailed instructions for energy conservation during the closure period, applicable to all universities:

• Avoid using electric lights during the day when sufficient natural light is available; keep windows, doors, and vents 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 government emphasized that these steps are essential to manage national energy consumption responsibly during the current global crisis and high fuel prices, while aligning with the upcoming Eid holiday.