THE tragic and brutal murder of Shahriar Alam Samya, a bright student from the Institute of Education and Research at Dhaka University, has struck a deep blow to the nation鈥檚 conscience. Once the torchbearer of progress and a hub for democratic movements, Dhaka University now finds itself grappling with an unsettling darkness that falls over its campus every night. Samya鈥檚 death is not just the loss of a life; it is the painful culmination of years of insecurity and inadequate planning at one of the country鈥檚 premier institutions. The campus is plagued by a range of issues, from illegal street vendors and the free movement of vagrants and drug addicts to a severe lack of security personnel. After dark, numerous areas of the university descend into an eerie silence and dangerous darkness. The university鈥檚 proctorial system is outdated, with security staff being too few, undertrained, and poorly equipped. While there have been multiple discussions over the years about improving campus security and controlling access, these plans have often faltered. Samya鈥檚 horrific murder is now a catalyst pushing us towards the urgent need for a safer campus.
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Global examples
IN THE United States, almost every university has its own dedicated campus police force. Institutions like the University of California, Harvard, and New York University have trained security officers who not only patrol but also take active roles in preventing sexual assault, providing mental health support, and responding to emergencies. Students have direct access to campus police for immediate help.
In the United Kingdom, universities such as the University of Manchester and University College London have specialised 鈥渦niversity security services鈥� that oversee campus security through a network of high-powered CCTV, night-vision cameras, and mobile response teams. These security personnel also focus on building trust and meaningful relationships with students, which is essential in a secure environment.
In Australia, many universities have launched a mobile app called 鈥淪afeZone鈥�, enabling students to share their location, request emergency help, and quickly report any safety concerns.
These examples highlight that campus security is an integral part of the educational system in developed countries, not a secondary concern.
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What must be done at Dhaka University?
THE time has come for Dhaka University to move beyond outdated thinking. Relying on a proctor and a small group of assistant proctors to guarantee the safety of the entire campus is unrealistic. What is needed now is a combination of infrastructural reforms, technology-driven surveillance, and unwavering administrative commitment.
Here are some essential measures that need immediate attention:
Create a professional security force: The university must establish a trained, dedicated security team to monitor high-risk areas, respond promptly to incidents, and coordinate with local police when needed.
Implement smart surveillance technology: The campus must be equipped with high-quality CCTV systems, a central control room, and advanced predictive technology to identify and prevent potential threats.
Evict and rehabilitate illegal structures: Illegal street vendors, temporary shelters, and encampments must be removed in a humane, sustainable manner, with proper rehabilitation measures in place.
Improve lighting and infrastructure: Areas prone to darkness should be illuminated, bushes should be cleared, and safe walkways should be constructed for pedestrians.
Provide psycho-social support: Insecurity can take a heavy toll on mental health. It is essential to establish trauma counselling services, helplines, and comprehensive student support systems.
Install digital entry control systems: The university should implement designated entry gates with digital ID verification and recording methods to monitor who enters the campus.
Ensure 24/7 medical services: The university鈥檚 medical centre must provide round-the-clock, quality healthcare services. Fast response capabilities are crucial for emergencies, injuries, or stress-related issues faced by students.
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Seeking accountability, not just grief
A UNIVERSITY is not only a place for learning; it must also provide a safe environment for students鈥� mental, social, and physical well-being. Samya will never return, but we must ensure that no other student faces such a fate. Samya鈥檚 death should not merely be a name in a tragic story; it should be a symbol of the urgent need for structural change. Long-term change is not just about hiring more security guards 鈥� it鈥檚 about implementing a vision for a safe, humane, and modern educational environment. Dhaka University has a proud history, but safeguarding this legacy requires timely reforms. The time for change is now.
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Sabbir Ahmed Chowdhury is an assistant professor, Institute of Education and Research (IER), University of Dhaka.
