Starting this Monday, Bangladesh has closed all public and private universities and introduced daily limits on fuel sales as part of emergency steps to manage a worsening energy shortage. The country depends on imports for nearly 95% of its energy needs, leaving it highly vulnerable to global supply shocks following the ongoing conflict in Iran, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Authorities said the early closure of universities, which consume large amounts of electricity in dormitories, classrooms, laboratories, and air conditioning, is intended to ease strain on the national power grid. Alongside universities, private coaching centers, and foreign-curriculum schools have been asked to suspend operations temporarily, while offices are being urged to maximize daylight use and minimize unnecessary electricity consumption.
The Ministry of Education in Bangladesh explained that the decision was made in response to the current global energy situation. Authorities described the closures and fuel rationing as precautionary measures designed to prevent widespread power outages and ensure a more stable supply of electricity and fuel across the country.
Moreover, the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources stated that the government is taking all possible measures to cut energy use and maintain stability in electricity, fuel, and imports.
How the crisis could affect students
The closures are likely to disrupt academic schedules, potentially affecting lesson plans, examinations, and research activities. Students preparing for national or university-level exams may face delays, while those involved in laboratory-based courses could experience interruptions in hands-on learning.
While authorities have indicated that universities will resume normal operations after the Eid holidays, prolonged shortages may continue to affect student progress. Analysts warn that extended interruptions in the academic calendar could have long-term consequences, particularly for students in critical years of study.
At the same time, families and students are being advised to plan for remote learning alternatives and manage energy use at home as the situation develops.
Broader economic and energy impact
The energy crisis is already having wider economic consequences. Severe gas shortages have forced four of the country’s five state-run fertilizer factories to halt operations, redirecting available gas to power plants to prevent nationwide blackouts.
Bangladesh has also turned to the spot Liquefied Natural Gas.(LNG) market, purchasing shipments at higher prices to bridge supply gaps while seeking additional cargoes to maintain essential energy flows. Motorists in Dhaka and other major cities have been seen queuing at fuel stations, reflecting growing public concern over shortages and potential rationing.
Experts say that the emergency measures may offer short-term relief, but without sustained stabilization of global oil and gas supplies, the energy crunch could continue to disrupt both household life and commercial activity.
Regional and international context
Bangladesh is not alone in facing the ripple effects of the Middle East conflict. Across South Asia, countries are contending with rising fuel costs and disrupted energy markets, as oil and gas exports from the region become uncertain. Analysts warn that ongoing instability could further increase inflation, reduce industrial output, and strain national budgets.
Authorities in Bangladesh are emphasizing that citizen cooperation is key. Measures such as efficient electricity usage, fuel rationing, and responsible consumption are expected to help the country navigate the crisis while mitigating economic and social impacts.
Looking ahead
The government has not specified exactly how long these measures will remain in place, but officials have indicated that resumption of normal operations will depend on improvements in energy supply. Meanwhile, families, students, and businesses are adjusting to a temporary period of austerity as Bangladesh grapples with the dual challenges of maintaining power stability and ensuring social and educational continuity.
According to energy analysts, this crisis highlights the country’s vulnerability to global energy shocks and may accelerate long-term strategies for energy diversification, including increased domestic production, renewable energy adoption, and more resilient supply chains.
