Students of the Clinical Psychology Department at Rajshahi University (RU) announced a complete shutdown of their department today, pressing for a three-point demand that includes amending what they termed a "discriminatory" recruitment circular.

At noon, the students locked the department office and began a sit-in demonstration in front of it. Their other demands include the introduction of internship allowances and the inclusion of a technical cadre for Clinical Psychology graduates in the Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS).

Sumon Ali, one of the protesters, said the department, despite being a decade old, still lacks adequate classrooms and facilities. He added that students are required to complete internships at the National Institute of Mental Health in Dhaka, yet no allowance has been introduced even after ten years. "The department chair has done nothing despite assuring us repeatedly," he said.

Another student, Jannat Jaman, criticised the recruitment circular, saying that although it specifies only Clinical Psychology graduates are eligible for faculty positions, Psychology graduates have been allowed to apply. "Clinical Psychology is an applied branch, and we gain hands-on experience through internships. Why should Psychology graduates be recruited here when we cannot apply in their department?" she said.

She added that the students have given a 24-hour ultimatum and warned of further action if their demands are not met.

More than 100 students from different academic years joined the protest.