Abdullah Al Mamun, BU 

Professor Dr. Mohammad Toufiq Alam from the Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Rajshahi University has officially taken charge as the interim Vice-Chancellor of Barishal University (BU) on Thursday. 

In an interview, Prof Dr. Toufiq Alam said, “As the government has appointed me in a special situation, I will do my utmost to take Barishal University to new heights—so that it can advance in quality, reputation, and global rankings. I want to maintain a harmonious environment with the cooperation of students, teachers, officers, and staff.”

“Since this is my first time here, I am not yet aware of the university's problems. While on my way here, I was thinking about how and from whom I could learn about the issues. I have planned to hold a meeting with the CRs (Class Representatives) and teachers of each department, which may involve around 250 to 300 people,” he added.

“If the problems are properly identified, solutions are certainly possible. If any issues involve financial matters, they might take a little longer to resolve,” he said.

When asked about collaborators of fascism, he responded, “I do not yet know whether such elements exist, but if they do, I will maintain zero tolerance.”

Last Tuesday, with the approval of the President, the Ministry of Education issued a notification appointing Dr. Mohammad Toufiq Alam as the interim Vice-Chancellor of Barishal University.

Dr. Toufiq Alam earned his BSc (Honours) and MSc degrees in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from Rajshahi University in 1986 and 1987, respectively.

In 1997, he completed a postgraduate diploma in Microbiology from Osaka University, Japan, and earned his PhD from Tokyo University of Technology in 2002.

He joined Rajshahi University as a lecturer in 1992 and was promoted to professor in 2007.

He has published chapters in two books and 43 research papers at home and abroad. He has participated in more than 30 international seminars, conferences, and workshops. Several research projects have been completed under his supervision.

It is mentioned  that following a month-long student movement, Dhaka University Professor Suchita Sharmin was relieved of her duties as Vice-Chancellor last Tuesday. Along with her, Professor Dr. Golam Rabbani was removed from the post of Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Professor Dr. Mamun Or Rashid from Patuakhali Science and Technology University was removed from the position of Treasurer.