As a student of the institute (IBA) I have few clarifications to make. Firstly, although the admission test is very difficult and sometimes may not reflect the true ability of students; I do not think it is "pathetic" (as quoted by her) at all. Our admission test is held before the BUET or other Dhaka University exams because our teachers are more concerned with timely passing out and graduation of the students amidst the inevitable session jams.

Those who leave IBA for abroad or other institutes are small in number, maximum ten. Although they do invalidate the seats that could have been filled by more serious students who really want to study BBA, teachers in the viva board keep that fact in mind and choose students accordingly. Passing the 'iron test' myself, I know how rigorously they keep asking and stressing on the fact as to why IBA should allow the candidate in. And by asking for a 'waiting list' Ms Samiha brings along the concept of making rooms for less competitive and 'weaker' students who may drop out of the program (or be "kicked out" as it keeps happening); or may remain in the probationary area during their four years. That enhances the risk of lowering the standard of BBA graduates altogether; and with a lower CGPA, students of other institutions have brighter chances of making it to BAT, Lever, etc.

I myself feel that perhaps the question structure of the admission test does not truly reflect a prospective executive's capability, but I definitely do not believe that holding the exams earlier than others is 'pathetic'.

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I am a student of 2002-2003 session. The admission test of IBA in our time was held before that of BUET, Medical and DU. So a lot of us attended the test. I also sat for the admission test but may be my ability and luck did not favour me that day. I am now studying at BUET in B. Sc. Engineering in Mechanical.

But I observed that about 10-12 of my friends who got the chance in IBA have abandoned it and studying in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering etc in BUET. Some are going abroad. Had there been a waiting list in IBA, students like us might have a chance to study in such a prestigious institution like IBA. But there is no waiting list in IBA. I think it is cruel.

I had an ambition to study business. Had there been a waiting list, some 10-20 students like me might get the chance to fulfil their dreams. For me, I am left with the only path like other BUET students who study in BUET, go abroad and never come back again because the job market for engineers in Bangladesh is not very good due to lack of growing industry.

It is sad for me indeed.

Muhammad Reaz Mohiuddin, B. Sc. Engg. Mechanical, BUET