National University forms committee to probe corruption

The National University formed a fact-finding committee today to investigate widespread corruption allegations dating back over a decade.
In a press release issued today, National University’s Acting Director of Public Relations, Mostafizur Rahman, confirmed the formation of the committee to The Daily Star, saying that allegations of extensive financial and administrative corruption have persisted since the previous government’s tenure.
The committee is tasked with probing alleged irregularities spanning from July, 2012 to July, 2024 in areas including procurement, infrastructure development, property rentals, vehicle use, and publications. This decision was reached during the 263rd meeting of the National University syndicate on November 3, 2024.
Headed by National University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Lutfar Rahman, the 11-member committee will investigate any potential violations of university statutes, regulations, and government directives. Other members include National University Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Md Nurul Islam, Treasurer Prof ATM Zafrul Azam, Prof Md Kamrul Hasan from Dhaka University’s Physics Department, and prominent legal experts Barristers Sarah Hossain and Jyotirmoy Barua.
The other members are Syed Abdal Ahmad, former president of the National Press Club, Prof Md Sabbir Mostafa Khan from BUET, Kazi Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman from Dhaka University’s Political Science Department, and Md Anwar Hossain Bhuiyan, Associate Professor in National University’s Management Department.
National University Vice Chancellor Prof ASM Amanullah will serve as an adviser to the committee. The investigation will evaluate whether financial, academic, and administrative activities complied with National University’s established laws and government regulations.