Dhaka University observed the Martyred Intellectuals Day today through a series of programs.
On this occasion, black flags were hoisted at the Vice-Chancellor’s residence and other important buildings of the university.
Led by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, floral wreaths were laid at the graveyard adjacent to the university’s central mosque, the memorial at Jagannath Hall premises, memorials in various residential areas, and the Martyred Intellectuals Memorials at Mirpur and Rayer Bazaar.
Special prayers were offered at the university’s central mosque and mosques of different residential halls seeking the eternal peace of the souls of the martyred intellectuals, while special prayers were also held at other places of worship.
Marking the day, a discussion meeting was organized at the auditorium of the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of the university. At the beginning of the discussion, a one-minute silence was observed in tribute to the martyrs.
The meeting was addressed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Treasurer Professor Dr. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Professor Sajeda Banu, younger sister of martyred intellectual Gias Uddin Ahmed, DUCSU Vice-President Abu Shadik kayem, along with leaders of the University of Dhaka Officers’ Association, the Third level Employees’ Association, and the Technical Employees’ Association.
Deans of various faculties, chairpersons of departments, directors of institutes, the proctor, provosts, teachers, heads of different offices, officers, and employees were also present.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan said that the historic events of 1952, 1969, 1971, 1990, and 2024 are not contradictory to one another; rather, they have collectively shaped Bangladesh’s national identity and history.
He emphasized that the nation must remain aware and united against ongoing political attempts to create divisions by setting these events against each other.
He further said that the sacrifice of the martyred intellectuals is not merely a part of memorable history; it forms the foundation of the nation’s unity, identity, and existence. As long as this sacrifice remains alive in collective memory, the unity of the nation will remain intact.