Students of Cumilla Government Women’s College held a human chain and protest on Saturday, July 25, seeking reconsideration of transfer orders for seven teachers following criticism over waterlogging at an HSC examination centre. The programme took place at 11am in front of the college’s main gate. English associate professor Mohammad Mohsin, one of those transferred, attended and appealed to students to stop the movement.

Students said the seven teachers had taught diligently for years and played important roles in academic activities. Third-year History and Culture student Sonia Akter said classes were already being conducted with only four teachers and further reductions would disrupt instruction. English student Sabrina Sultana Jyoti demanded an explanation for the transfers, saying students would have no objection if the government provided valid reasons.

Principal Amena Begum said she had recently joined the college and did not support the protest in its current form, but would discuss the matter with senior officials and seek a review. After criticism over HSC examinations affected by waterlogging, the education ministry ordered the seven teachers released from their current posts last Thursday for transfer to government colleges in several districts.