Serious allegations have been raised against an officer of the Finance and Accounts Section of Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU), involving irregularities in promotion, financial mismanagement, and personal financial gain.
The accused is Syed Nizam Uddin, Deputy Registrar of the university’s Finance and Accounts Section, who is also an executive member of the Bangabandhu Officers–Employees Parishad.
According to documents, the recruitment circular for Nizam’s appointment as Section Officer at PSTU required candidates to have at least one first division/class in their academic records. However, an analysis of his academic documents shows that he did not secure a first division/class at any level. Despite this, he was reportedly appointed in exchange for a large sum of money given as bribe to influential Awami League leaders of that time.
Documents obtained by the University Journalists’ Association reveal that he was appointed as Section Officer (Grade–9) at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall (now Bijoy–24 Hall) on 4 June 2016, based on the recommendation of a selection board held on 19 April 2016, and approved in the 37th meeting of the Regent Board.
Shockingly, within only four years, and without adhering to the government’s standard promotion policy, Nizam was promoted to Deputy Registrar (Grade–5) of the same hall (Bangabandhu Hall) based on the decision of the selection board meeting on 29 November 2020 and the Regent Board’s 46th meeting on 19 December 2020.
Complainants allege that Nizam manipulated the then administration and formed a one-member committee only to formalize this unethical and irregular promotion. Multiple officers and employees claim that Syed Nizam Uddin misused his position in the Accounts Section to accumulate significant personal wealth through illegal means. They allege that he purchased land in the luxurious Banani area of Patuakhali town, as well as in Jainakathi village and several other locations—raising serious questions about the sources of his income. Several officials also stated that Nizam routinely demands money whenever any financial matter requires his approval.
Documents show that Nizam served as the No. 3 Executive Member of the Bangabandhu Officers–Employees Parishad. Numerous teachers, officers, and employees alleged that he used his claimed close connection with former Awami League MP Afzal Hossain to maintain unethical influence, take bribes, and secure personal benefits—allowing him to remain dominant in the Accounts Section for years. Even after the political shift following the July uprising, he reportedly continued his irregular activities by maintaining ties with the current university administration.
Further review of internal documents indicates that several university teachers have been receiving unauthorized additional allowances for years. Evidence shows that Nizam allocated extra benefits to teachers he personally favored. Despite awareness of these activities, the administration has been unable to take action against him.
Nizam is also accused of exploiting his role in the university’s Loan Committee to extract large sums from teachers, officers, and employees applying for house construction loans. Additionally, several teachers and officers complained that, since he controls salary processing, he grants benefits to those close to him while reducing the salaries and benefits of individuals he dislikes.
It is reported that after discussions began on transferring him on 5 August 2024 back to his previous hall (Bijoy–24 Hall), Nizam secretly “managed” high-ranking administrative officials to remain stationed in the Accounts Section.
When asked about these allegations, Deputy Registrar Syed Nizam said, “The Registrar’s Office holds all my files. They can answer better. If the administration finds proof of irregularities or corruption by me, I will accept whatever action is taken.”
When questioned about holding a first division in any stage of his academic life, he could not provide a clear answer and again referred the matter to the Registrar’s Office.
Tapas Biswas, Assistant Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission (Dudok) Patuakhali District Office, said, “We will inform the ACC headquarters regarding the allegations against Syed Nizam. If the allegations are specific, we will contact the university administration.”
Acting Registrar Professor Dr. Ektiar Uddin said, “If there is any inconsistency in Nizam’s promotion, we will look into it. If proven, action will be taken according to the investigation.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Kazi Rafikul Islam stated, “I will discuss these allegations with the Registrar. If there is evidence of violating promotion regulations or involvement in corruption, necessary action will be taken.”
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