Khulna University authorities have reported that 39 teachers who went abroad on study leave for higher education have not returned to their posts. The university stated that some of them resigned before their leave period ended, while legal measures have been initiated against the rest. According to university policy, teachers may take up to five years of paid study leave for a PhD and up to three years for a master’s or MPhil degree, with an additional two years of unpaid leave allowed in special cases.

Registrar Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman said multiple letters were sent to the absent teachers, and 14 are currently facing lawsuits. Legal notices have also been issued to recover funds from those who resigned and to compel others to return. Treasurer Professor Dr. Md. Nurunnabi noted that the total recoverable amount stands at around Tk 5.67 crore, with some teachers making partial payments or requesting installments.

Vice-Chancellor (acting) Professor Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid Khan described the trend of not returning after study leave as harmful to both the state and the university, causing prolonged vacancies and teacher shortages that negatively affect students.