Rupaiya Shrestha Tanchangya, a graduate of Dhaka University’s Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, is now in the spotlight as she campaigns for the position of Career Development Secretary in the upcoming DUCSU elections. Known for her active role in student movements and her advocacy for equitable education, Rupaiya brings both experience and a vision aimed at empowering fellow students.
Hailing from Rajsthali Upazila in Rangamati, Rupaiya belongs to the Tanchangya ethnic community, a background that has informed her advocacy for inclusive student rights. Her leadership was visible during the July Uprising, where she helped organize female students, coordinated participation from across the city, and faced numerous challenges, including harassment and attacks, while ensuring student voices were heard.
Rupaiya’s commitment to student welfare continued even after the uprising. She was among those targeted during a January protest over the removal of “indigenous” references in textbooks, where she and several others were injured. These experiences, she says, strengthened her resolve to fight for justice, safety, and fair representation for marginalized communities within educational spaces.
Building on this background, Rupaiya has turned her focus to student career development. In her campaign for DUCSU, she emphasizes guiding students toward meaningful careers both in Bangladesh and abroad. She aims to provide resources for government exams, career-oriented skill development, and pathways to higher education. By fostering stronger connections between Dhaka University and the wider industry, she hopes to ensure students are better prepared to compete in modern professional landscapes.
Rupaiya’s campaign underscores a broader vision: empowering students to achieve their full potential while advocating for equity and systemic reform. Her experience as a student leader, combined with her dedication to inclusivity and skill-building, positions her as a notable candidate for DUCSU’s leadership in the coming term.
