A first in CU: Starlink launched, led by student initiative

Chattogram University (CU) has officially launched Starlink's satellite-based internet service, marking the first implementation of its kind at a public university in Bangladesh.

The initiative was led by Sultanul Arefin, co-founder of Voice of Students and senior joint convener of Bagchas.

The service was inaugurated today around 3:30 pm at the university's central library premises by CU's Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof Dr Kamal Uddin.

Initially, the Starlink network will cover an area of 3,200 square metres surrounding the library. The system can support up to 250 devices simultaneously, with 30 routers installed for users. The project cost approximately Tk 55,000 for installation, with a monthly maintenance expense of Tk 4,200.

Speaking at the inauguration, Prof Kamal Uddin said, "This initiative opens up the possibility of building an alternative, uninterrupted internet network across the campus. During the July uprising, when internet access was suspended nationwide, such a project could have provided a vital means of communication."

Project initiator Sultanul Arefin described the launch as a historic milestone for CU. "Before the Cucsu election, I pledged that, whether I win or not, I would bring Starlink internet to CU within 14 days. Today, that promise has become reality. My goal is to ensure that no administration or government can ever disconnect students from the internet again," he said.

According to CU authorities, the service has been launched on a trial basis in the library area. Depending on its performance and cost-effectiveness, the administration plans to gradually expand Starlink coverage to other parts of the campus.