Tue Nov 19 17:05:56 UTC 2024: **Dhaka University Reopens Doors to Pakistani Students Amidst Warming Relations**
**DHAKA, BANGLADESH – November 19, 2024** – Dhaka University, Bangladesh’s largest educational institution, has lifted its ban on admitting Pakistani students, effective immediately. The decision, announced late Tuesday, follows a November 13th syndicate meeting and reflects a thaw in relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The ban, implemented in December 2015, stemmed from calls for Pakistan to acknowledge its role in the 1971 genocide in East Pakistan. While Pakistan has yet to issue an apology, Dhaka University cited a need to foster academic exchange as the reason for reversing the policy. The move allows Pakistani students to enroll at Dhaka University, and Bangladeshi students to pursue studies in Pakistan.
Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Sayma Haque Bidisha emphasized the university’s commitment to academic pursuits, noting the need for Bangladeshi students to travel to Pakistan for scholarships and conferences. The decision comes amidst increased dialogue between Pakistan’s High Commissioner Syed Ahmad Maroof and Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Mohammad Yunus. Since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August, High Commissioner Maroof has actively engaged in strengthening ties, including advocating for direct air connectivity between the two countries. His recent participation in the Bay of Bengal Conversation 2024 further underscored this effort.
Dhaka University, a historical center of political activism, including protests against both past Pakistani and Bangladeshi governments, holds significant symbolic weight. The university’s role in the 1971 independence movement played a key part in the earlier decision to bar Pakistani students. However, the current decision signals a shift in focus towards academic cooperation, regardless of lingering historical sensitivities.
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