DHAKA: Movement by private college teachers to press home an eight-point charter of demand has created uncertainty in around 130 private colleges.

Private college teachers were engaged in movement and lobbying at different levels of the government since the beginning of this year with their 8-point demand that include independent pay-scale for them.

Private college teachers around the country declared hunger strike till death to press home their demand, which did not get any attention from the government.

They were not taking classes hampering studies of the students.

The teachers said that if the situation goes on it would create havoc.

The teachers alleged that they did not receive any positive response from the Education Ministry and other concerned ministries on their issues.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid however rejected the notion.

He said, “I am not aware of the issue and no one raised it with me. We can discuss once I am informed.”

The education minister could not even remember if any teacher met him on the issue.

Meanwhile, the teachers have announced to boycott classes on October 27 and 28.

They will go for hunger strike on December 27 if necessary.

When contacted, Bangladesh Private College Honors Teacher Parishad convener Kazi Md. Faruk said they discussed the matters with the Education Minister, Education Secretary and Parliamentary Standing Committee president Rashed Khan Menon for a couple of times.

“They consider our demand as logical and assured us to approve them,” he said, “But we did not get any response.”   

BDST 1449 HRS, AUGUST 22, 2010