NSTU Students Stage Sit-In over Substandard Supper

Students of Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) staged a sit-in and protest demanding improvement in food quality and provision of subsidies at their residential halls. During the demonstration, they locked the canteen and called for the removal of its director.

Agitated students chanted slogans such as: “Where is the subsidy in the hall? Administration must answer,” “1, 2, 3, 4, dining manager leave the chair,” and “No gas in the hall, administration must answer.”

On the night of August 19, Tuesday, at around 9:30 pm, female students from Nawab Faizunnesa Chowdhurani Hall were seen chanting these slogans after coming out of the dormitory.

The students alleged that the hall canteen serves low-quality food and charges prices much higher than the fair rate. Despite repeated complaints, the authorities reportedly failed to take any action, compelling the students to launch their movement.

One student, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “Earlier, based on the canteen manager’s complaint, hall authorities searched the dormitory and confiscated electric stoves and other cooking equipment. Afterwards, our demand was for hygienic food at the canteen and a fair price structure. But this has not been implemented for a long time.”

Later that night, after hall authorities intervened and assured the students that their demands would be considered, the protest was temporarily suspended and the students returned to their dormitories.

Commenting on the issue, Hall Provost Dr. Abidur Rahman said: “Along with all the assistant provosts, I will very soon arrange a meeting with the students to discuss and resolve the issues. Since I am unwell, I could not visit the hall today.”