The University of Dhaka has announced that it will offer special privileges in undergraduate admissions for the academic year 2024–2025 to the family members of individuals who were officially recognized as martyrs or sustained injuries during the July–August 2023 student-public uprising.
The decision, aimed at honoring the sacrifices made during the mass protests, was confirmed through a press release issued by the university on Sunday. According to the statement, the benefits will be extended to the spouses, sons, and daughters of those who were either killed or injured during the events. In situations where no immediate family members are present or available, the siblings of the victims will be eligible to receive the same privileges.
This initiative was officially approved at a recent meeting of the university’s Deans’ Committee, which is responsible for academic and administrative policy decisions. The university stated that the move reflects its commitment to upholding the values of justice, sacrifice, and civic responsibility that were embodied during the uprising.
The student-public uprising of July and August 2023 marked a significant moment in the country’s recent history, as thousands of students and citizens took to the streets to protest issues related to governance, education policy, and civil rights. The protests, which garnered nationwide and international attention, resulted in clashes with law enforcement agencies, leading to multiple injuries and a number of confirmed deaths.
The University of Dhaka, as the country’s oldest and most prestigious higher education institution, was at the heart of the movement, with many of its students, faculty, and alumni actively participating. In recognition of this historic role, the university has taken a symbolic and practical step to support the families affected by the events.
University officials emphasized that detailed guidelines and procedures for availing these admission privileges will be made available soon through official channels. Applicants seeking these benefits will likely be required to provide verification of their relation to the recognized victims as well as official documentation confirming martyrdom or injury status.
The announcement has been widely welcomed by student groups and civil society organizations, who view the decision as a gesture of solidarity with those who bore the brunt of the protests and a positive step toward supporting their families in rebuilding their futures.
As the admission process for the upcoming academic year gets underway, the University of Dhaka’s initiative stands as a powerful acknowledgment of sacrifice and a reaffirmation of its longstanding role for social justice and national consciousness.
