Dhaka College: Another name for crisis

Dhaka College, one of the oldest educational institutions in the Indian subcontinent, stands with pride and tradition in the heart of Dhaka. Established in 1841, this prestigious institution is located on Mirpur Road in the New Market area. The college offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with approximately 25,000 students currently enrolled. Spanning 18.81 acres (7.61 hectares), the campus has eight residential halls but only eight buses for transportation-far fewer than required.
Many of the residential halls, like other campus infrastructure, are in a state of disrepair. The campus is often littered with waste, diminishing its beauty. The administration must take immediate action to clean the premises with an eye for aesthetics. Key areas such as Bijoy Chattar and Mukto Mancha lack proper beautification, bicycle and motorcycle parking facilities are poorly maintained, and the gymnasium remains under-equipped. The cafeteria is inactive and food prices are beyond students' affordability. The pond area frequently witnesses undesirable activities, whereas planting flowers or medicinal plants could transform it into a more pleasant space.
Residential students face numerous challenges due to a lack of basic amenities. There is no barbershop, no mobile banking services, no pharmacy, and no laundry facilities. The institution's historic buildings, standing for nearly two centuries, are deteriorating, with scraps from ceilings falling down. Immediate renovation of these halls is essential to ensure students' safety.
Addressing these issues is crucial, as they directly impact students' daily lives. A clean and well-maintained campus not only fosters a healthier environment but also enhances students' mental well-being. Just as meeting basic human needs is essential for personal growth, fulfilling these fundamental requirements is vital for the holistic development of students.

Azizul Haque, Student
Department of History
Dhaka College
azizulhaque181251@gmail.com