DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan today addressed a discussion organized at the Student-Teacher Center (TSC) auditorium, marking Martyred Intellectuals’ Day. Photo: DU

DHAKA, Dec 14, 2025 (BSS) – Dhaka University (DU) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan today said that the historic events of 1952, 1969, 1971, 1990 and 2024 are not contradictory; rather, they have collectively shaped Bangladesh’s national identity and historical trajectory.

“The nation must remain alert to political attempts to create division by pitting these events against one another,” he said while addressing a discussion organized at the Student-Teacher Center (TSC) auditorium, marking Martyred Intellectuals’ Day.

DU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mamun Ahmed, Treasurer Professor Dr M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Shahid Gias Uddin Ahmed’s younger sister Professor Sajeda Banu, Convener of the Dhaka University Alumni Association Convening Committee Shamsuzzaman Dudu, and Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Abu Sadiq Kayem, among others, addressed the discussion.

Deans of various faculties, chairmen and heads of departments, institute directors, proctors, provosts, teachers, officers and employees were present at the event.

At the beginning of the programme, a one-minute silence was observed in memory of the martyrs.

VC Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan said, “The sacrifice of the martyred intellectuals is not merely a part of history; it is the foundation of our national unity, identity and existence. As long as their sacrifice remains alive in our collective memory, our unity as a nation will remain strong.”

He said Bangladesh is currently going through a transitional period, adding that at such a time, the memory of the martyrs serves as the greatest inspiration to remain united. “We can repay our debt to the martyrs, at least in part, if everyone—including teachers, doctors and journalists—performs their respective duties with sincerity and responsibility,” he added.

Marking the day, black flags were hoisted atop key university buildings, including the Vice-Chancellor’s office.

Under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmed Khan, wreaths were laid at the graveyard on the premises of the university’s central mosque, the memorial at Jagannath Hall, memorials in various residential areas, and at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorials in Mirpur and Rayer Bazar.

In addition, prayers were offered at various halls and mosques, including the university’s central mosque, seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of the martyred intellectuals, while special prayers were also held at different places of worship.