The Jagannath University is a historic institution with around 19,000 students. Despite its popularity, the university lacks adequate residential facilities, offering only one dormitory for female students. While there is a designated hall for male students, it remains inaccessible due to occupancy issues. Consequently, apart from the women's hall, the majority of JnU students cannot avail of residential facilities.
From the outset of their campus lives, students find themselves struggling to survive under challenging conditions. To fend for their increasing cost of accommodation and living, students are often forced to take on low-paying tuition jobs or additional part time work. Many students endure these hardships in the unsanitary environment of Old Dhaka, yet they must excel academically for the sake of their future.
To experience the comfort of living at home, some students commute long distances from places like Cumilla, Manikganj, and Narsingdi. Despite attending such a reputed university, students are increasingly feeling disheartened. Many are forced to take second admission tests to switch to institutions that offer residential support, with financially disadvantaged students particularly struggling to complete their studies.
Students are urgently requesting for a prompt restoration of dormitories and propose temporary accommodations on the new campus in Keraniganj as an immediate solution. Additionally, if necessary, stipends or allowances in some form should be introduced for eligible students to alleviate their financial burdens. The university administration's attention is drawn to resolve this crisis and ensure a supportive environment for all students.
Nusrat Jahan Arpita
Student
Department of Mass Communication and Journalism
Jagannath University, Dhaka.
arpitanusrat7@gmail.com