DU Correspondent

The initial proposal for the Bangladesh-China Friendship Hall construction project for Dhaka University female students at an estimated cost of Tk 244 crore with financial assistance from the Chinese government has been approved in principle by the Advisor to the Ministry of Planning. If this project is implemented, accommodation will be provided to 1,500 female students.

Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Mr. Yao Wen has reiterated his commitment to support the construction of the female student hall.

It is to be noted that it is expected that three important large projects, including resolving the housing crisis of Dhaka University students, will be implemented soon. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan recently discussed the overall progress of these projects during a meeting with the Advisor to the Ministry of Planning Professor Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud. At the time, the advisor assured the speedy implementation of these projects.

In addition, the Vice-Chancellor held separate discussions with Economic Relations Division (ERD) Secretary Shahriar Quader Siddiqui and Planning Commission's Socio-Infrastructure Division Secretary Dr. Qayyum Ara Begum to expedite the activities of these projects.

Incidentally, various buildings including 4 halls for female students and 5 halls for male students will be constructed under the Dhaka University Further Development Project at an estimated cost of Tk 2,841 crore 86 lakh. If this project is implemented, accommodation will be provided for about 3,000 female students and 5,100 male students.

At the same time, 168 very old dilapidated buildings will be renovated under the Dhaka University Buildings Renovation, Conservation and Beautification Project at an estimated cost of Tk 1,51 crore 53 lakh.