Private educational institution teachers in Bangladesh have postponed their previously announced “Long March to Jamuna” protest, which was part of their ongoing movement demanding a 20% house rent allowance and other benefits. Instead, they announced a new protest plan — a 24-hour sit-in at the Central Shaheed Minar, followed by an indefinite hunger strike if their demands remain unmet.
The announcement was made at a rally on Thursday (October 16) evening, after teachers held a meeting with the Education Adviser earlier in the day. The teachers accused the adviser of showing an uncooperative and dismissive attitude during the discussion.
The Nationalisation-seeking Teachers’ Alliance member secretary, Principal Delwar Hossain Azizi, stated that the government’s inability to ensure fair wages for 600,000 teachers and staff exposes the weakness of the education system. He said teachers were ready to take up other professions if necessary.
Currently, the government has agreed to only a 5% rent increase (minimum Tk 2,000), but the teachers continue to demand a 20% increase (minimum Tk 3,000). The standoff has resulted in suspension of classes and exams across many institutions.