University of Dhaka Welcomes Pakistani Students

DHAKA – In a significant move aimed at fostering educational ties, the University of Dhaka in Bangladesh has officially lifted the ban on Pakistani students. This decision marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two neighboring countries, which have a shared history and cultural ties. The ban, which had been in place for some time, has now been revoked, allowing Pakistani students to enroll in various programs at the university.

Professor Saima Haq, the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Admin) of the University of Dhaka, announced that Pakistani students are now welcome to apply for admission. This initiative is not just a one-way street; Bangladeshi students will also have the chance to pursue higher education in Pakistan. The lifting of the ban is seen as a step towards enhancing educational cooperation and mutual understanding between the two nations.

The decision was made during a Syndicate meeting held on November 13, chaired by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan. This development comes in the wake of a political shift in Bangladesh, following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid on August 5. Hasina stated that her resignation was aimed at preventing further violence and unrest among students and the general public. She expressed her concerns, saying, “I resigned to stop more bodies from piling up in the streets.”

Since Hasina’s departure, Bangladesh has been under the leadership of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. This change in governance has opened doors for new policies and initiatives, including the recent decision regarding Pakistani students.

The lifting of the ban is not just about education; it symbolizes a broader commitment to peace and collaboration in the region. By allowing students from Pakistan to study in Bangladesh, both countries can benefit from shared knowledge and cultural exchange. Education is a powerful tool that can bridge gaps and foster understanding, and this decision is a testament to that belief.

The University of Dhaka's decision to lift the ban on Pakistani students is a positive development that reflects a desire for improved relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan. As students from both countries embark on this new journey of learning together, it is hoped that such initiatives will pave the way for a brighter, more cooperative future. Education knows no borders, and this step is a clear indication that both nations are ready to embrace that philosophy.