Dhaka, 30 January 2024,
BRAC University has issued an official statement explaining why it did not offer a part-time teaching contract to philosophy lecturer Asif Mahtab for Spring 2024, describing his tearing of pages from a government Grade 7 textbook—and urging others to do the same—as an “act of vandalism” not supported by the institution. The statement was published on January 29, 2024.
In its note, the university said it upholds constructive debate and dialogue but considers any damage to national property unacceptable. It added that, while a new contract would not be offered, Mahtab would be compensated for preparatory work already undertaken for the semester. The statement also clarified that BRAC University does not promote homosexuality, as alleged by some on social media, and that it believes in equal rights and opportunities for every human being.
The non-renewal followed Mahtab’s public protest involving pages related to the “Sharifa’s Story” lesson in the Grade 7 History & Social Science textbook.
Source:
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BRAC University — “Statement on the recent incident” (Jan 29, 2024): bracu.ac.bd
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The Daily Star — “Asif Mahtab not offered teaching contract for ‘vandalism’: BRAC University” (Jan 29, 2024): thedailystar.net
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Prothom Alo (English) — “Brac University won’t renew contract with Asif Mahtab” (Jan 29, 2024): prothomalo.com
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bdnews24 — “Sharifa’s Story: BRAC University clarifies reason for Asif’s sacking” (Jan 29, 2024): bdnews24.com
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Manabzamin (Bangla) — “আসিফ মাহতাবের চাকরি আর নবায়ন করবে না ব্র্যাক” (Jan 29, 2024): mzamin.com
