No Permanent Charter, No Operations: Major Reforms Coming to Private University Law

The journey of private universities in the country began in 1992. At that time, the number was only two. However, currently, this number stands at 116. The government believes that the 2010 law is not suitable for managing such a large number of universities. For this reason, an initiative has been taken to amend the law.

To manage the operations of private universities more systematically, the government has taken steps to amend the 2010 law to make it relevant to the times. The draft of the amended law proposes several strict conditions and restrictions for university operations.

The draft law states that violating the law will result in imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of 50 lakh taka, or both penalties. Currently, the fine is only 10 lakh taka. Additionally, a provision has been included to shut down a university’s operations if it fails to obtain a permanent charter within seven years of receiving operational permission.

This information was obtained from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the draft amendment sources. UGC member Professor Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain said, “The process of amending the law is still ongoing. The draft has not been finalized. Work is still in progress on some issues.”

Mandatory Permanent Charter

The law states that universities must obtain a permanent charter within seven years of temporary permission plus an additional five years of renewal—a total of 12 years. If they fail to do so, all activities, including admissions, will be halted.

Increase in Bank Deposit Amount

Currently, the condition for establishing a university in Dhaka and Chattogram metropolitan areas is to deposit 5 crore taka in a bank, which is being increased to 8 crore taka. In other metropolitan areas, the deposit is set at 5 crore taka, and in other areas, 3 crore taka.

Land Requirement

Where previously 1 or 2 acres of land was required, now a condition of having 5 acres of undisputed land in any area has been proposed.

Stricter Vice-Chancellor Appointment Rules

To become a Vice-Chancellor, one must have 20 years of teaching experience at a recognized university. Those with a third-class in their academic career cannot become Vice-Chancellors. No individual can serve as Vice-Chancellor for more than two terms. Four months before the position becomes vacant, the names of three eligible candidates must be sent to the government. Proposals for changes in educational qualifications for appointing Pro-Vice-Chancellors and Treasurers have also been included.

Increased Severity of Penalties

For violating the law, a maximum of five years imprisonment, a 50 lakh taka fine, or both penalties have been proposed. Previously, the fine was 10 lakh taka.

Sexual Harassment Prevention Committee

A mandatory requirement to form a designated committee to prevent sexual harassment in universities has been proposed. This proposal was added following recent complaints and discussions.