JnU Correspondent

Although not yet finalized in writing, verbally the handover of the work for the second campus of Jagannath University to the army has been completed, Vice Chancellor Pr Dr Md Rezaul Karim has said.
The final process will be completed within the next three working days and all those involved will visit the campus, the VC said on Wednesday, following a meeting with representatives from the UGC and the army at the Education Ministry.

Rezaul said: “The work for our second campus is ongoing. The process of how the army will take over will be finalized within three working days. The army representatives will visit the campus, assess the progress of the work and create a roadmap.”

He further said: “We (authority) had also requested the army to take over the construction of the steel structure buildings for the Bani Bhaban and Shaheed Habibur Rahman Hall. They have given initial approval for this work and they will visit these two halls. This is a major success for us.”

The VC also urged students to withdraw their shutdown protests, saying: "We are calling on students to lift the campus shutdown. Everyone will benefit if the shutdown is lifted. Personally, I am confident that the work on the second campus will be completed by the army.”

He said full credit should be given to the students for their efforts while also acknowledging the government’s attention and cooperation in resolving the issues.

In response to a question from the press about the second campus, he said: “Regarding the two phases of work on the second campus, for the ongoing works and those where tender processes have not started, we will begin by revising the DPP (Revised Development Project Proposal) and proceed with the work. If the Ministry of Education grants approval for the second phase, we will complete it as well.”

Regarding the written resolution of the ministry’s meeting, the VC said: “It takes time to finalize the resolutions of such multifaceted meetings. They will work on it very quickly. The army representatives are expected to visit the second campus on Sunday.”

Meanwhile, protesting students have mentioned that they will continue their shutdown program until they receive written assurance.

Moniruzzaman Monir, a representative of the protesting students, said: “The campus shutdown will remain until we receive written assurance. During this time, we urge everyone to refrain from any processions or protests.”