PSTU DVM Students Continue Strike for Seventh Day Over Degree Reinstatement

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) discipline at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) have continued their boycott of classes and examinations for the seventh consecutive day, demanding the reinstatement of the DVM degree.

As part of their ongoing movement, the students were seen observing a sit-in programme today (April 1) after initially announcing a boycott of all academic activities on March 4. Since then, they have been carrying out protest rallies and various demonstrations to press home their demands.

Earlier, on February 26, DVM students submitted a memorandum to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the university, seeking the restoration of the DVM degree. In the memorandum, they stated that they were originally admitted as regular students of the DVM discipline. However, following a decision taken at the 54th (emergency) Academic Council meeting held on September 3, 2025, the DVM and Animal Husbandry degrees were abolished and the students were incorporated under the BSc in Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry programme.

Subsequently, in response to Writ Petition No. 17318/2025 filed in the High Court Division, the court declared the decision to abolish the separate DVM and BSc AH (Honours) degrees unlawful and directed that the two programmes be run in parallel.

Later, the university filed an appeal, and on March 11, following a chamber court decision, the earlier stay order issued on March 5 was vacated, allowing students to continue their academic activities under their respective degree programmes.

In light of this ruling, students demanded the reinstatement of the DVM degree, stating that their academic status had become clear. However, they allege that no effective steps have yet been taken by the university administration, which has compelled them to continue boycotting classes and examinations.

One of the protesting students said, "Since we were admitted under the DVM programme, our demand is simple—we want to earn a DVM degree. This internationally recognised degree aligns with our original discipline, and its reinstatement is essential to avoid future legal complications."

The student further alleged, "Unfortunately, the university administration is attempting to suppress our legitimate demands with various excuses. We want to make it clear that such intimidation will not deter us. If our demands are not met, we will be forced to adopt stricter measures to protect students’ interests. We believe in peaceful and justified movements, but we are prepared to intensify our protest if necessary."

Responding to the issue, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. S. M. Hemayet Jahan said, "The case is still pending before the High Court, and a decision will be taken after the final verdict is delivered."

Attempts to reach Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Kazi Rafiqul Islam over phone for comments were unsuccessful.