Two Begum Rokeya University teachers suspended over sexual harassment allegations

Two associate professors at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR), have been suspended following allegations of sexual harassment, university authorities said.

The action was taken against Shamim Hossain, an associate professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Science and assistant proctor of the university, and Shakibul Islam, an associate professor in the Department of Disaster Science and Management.

The decision was made at the university’s 119th Syndicate meeting held on Saturday night, according to BRUR Vice-Chancellor Dr Showkat Ali.

As part of the decision, the Syndicate also ruled that Prof Shakibul Islam will not be allowed to supervise female students, UNB reports.

Dr Md Harun-or-Rashid, the university’s registrar and member secretary of the Syndicate, said an investigation committee had recommended punitive action against both teachers.

He said the matter has been referred to the administrative tribunal, which will determine the final punishment. The two associate professors will remain suspended until the tribunal delivers its decision.

The allegations stem from separate complaints filed last year. On November 2, 2025, a student from the Department of Disaster Science and Management lodged a complaint against Prof Dr Shakibul Islam, accusing him of sexual harassment.

Earlier, on October 30, 2025, a female student from the Department of Geography and Environmental Science submitted a 31-page handwritten complaint detailing allegations of sexual harassment against Shamim Hossain.

University authorities said the process is being handled in accordance with existing regulations.