Unionized educators and administrative staff in Russia carry on a three-day strike, protesting over benefits issues.
Teachers and Staff at Rajshahi University Demand Reinstatement of Benefits in Prolonged Work Stoppage
Teachers and employees at Rajshahi University (RU) in Bangladesh have been protesting since mid-August 2025, demanding the reinstatement of institutional benefits and an end to discrimination. The work stoppage and sit-in, which began on August 18, continued for several days and involved over 300 teachers, officers, and staff.
The protestors are particularly concerned about the cancellation of the dependent quota for staff children, a benefit that is still retained at other universities in the country. They argue that this decision is discriminatory and demands equal rights and full implementation of benefits enjoyed by staff at other institutions.
The protesters have been boycotting classes, blocking the administrative building gate, and participating in sit-ins as part of their movement. Their actions have disrupted academic schedules, including the upcoming Rajshahi University Central Students' Union (Rucsu) election, which was scheduled for September 15, 2025.
The university administration has failed to address their demands, prompting the protestors to warn of escalating actions if no resolution is reached. As of August 24, 2025, there were reports that the strike was suspended briefly after the administration gave assurances regarding their demands. However, details on whether full institutional benefits have been reinstated or how the demands are being met remain unclear.
The teachers participating in the demonstration have demanded immediate action from the administration to remove discrimination and restore the dependent quota benefit at Rajshahi University. They have announced a full-day suspension of classes and work for all departments, except for examinations and emergency services, on August 19.
The program commenced at 9am and ended at 1pm in front of the administrative building, with the teachers and staff describing the issue as discriminatory and demanding the reinstatement of their rights. The protest took place in front of the administrative building of Rajshahi University and was aimed at demanding the elimination of discrimination and the reinstatement of institutional benefits at Rajshahahi University.
The organizers of the work stoppage and sit-in have expressed their concerns about the poor conditions at the university, including the need to renovate teachers' quarters. They have vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met, causing ongoing disruptions at Rajshahi University.
Despite the ongoing protests and sit-ins at Rajshahi University in Bangladesh, the political landscape remains unaltered. Simultaneously, teachers and staff are not only confronting university administration on the reinstatement of benefits but also advocating for equal rights in education-and-self-development opportunities. The general news coverage of this prolonged work stoppage highlights the ongoing struggle for fairness and equality within the institution.
