Dhaka University is facing a severe financial shortfall — with research funding cuts, housing crises, and delayed stipends for part-time staff. Yet, the administration has approved the installation of nine air conditioners worth BDT 9.23 lakh at the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUSU) building.

Sources revealed that the approval was granted last week from the revenue budget, allegedly under pressure from DUSU Vice President Abu Sadiq Kayem. The approval took place while the university treasurer, Professor Jahangir Alam, was abroad. Upon his return, he questioned the process, stating that such expenses were not justified under the current deficit conditions and that “everything should remain accountable.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed has promised to investigate how the approval was made. The Deputy VC (Education), Professor Mamun Ahmed, clarified that he merely forwarded the file as part of routine duties, while the VC gave the final approval.

The procurement also bypassed standard government tender procedures, using the Direct Purchase Method (DPM), typically reserved for emergencies or rare items. Engineering officials confirmed that nine Gree-brand AC units are being installed rapidly under DPM.

Financial records show that DUSU had a total allocation of BDT 30 lakh this fiscal year, of which nearly BDT 24 lakh has already been spent on renovations. The decision has sparked criticism among faculty and students, highlighting growing concerns over financial mismanagement at the country’s premier university.