Photo: BSS

KHULNA, May 5, 2026 (BSS) - Experts at a seminar here on Tuesday said 
intellectual enlightenment plays a crucial role in the development of human 
society, while language proficiency, particularly deep knowledge of one's 
mother tongue, forms one of the key foundations of enlightenment.

They addressed at the seminar titled "Revisiting the Socio-Political Legacy 
Of Jürgen Habermas in Contemporary Bangladesh" was held at Khulna University 
today, focusing on the life, philosophy and intellectual contributions of 
German philosopher and sociologist Jürgen Habermas.

Sociology Discipline of the university organized the seminar at the 
Journalist Liaquat Ali Auditorium this afternoon.

Speaking as the chief guest, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Rezaul Karim 
highlighted the uncertainties in the contemporary socio-political context and 
said sudden changes in a long-established social system create new political 
and social realities.

He said critical thinking and intellectual practices are essential to 
understanding such transformations, which are strongly reflected in Habermas' 
philosophy.

KU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Harunur Rashid Khan, who addressed the 
seminar as special guest, said Habermas' thoughts and works are 
multidimensional and highly influential in the European intellectual sphere.

He said reading habits indicate the intellectual development of a nation, 
while books enable people to learn about the ideas of globally renowned 
thinkers.

Such seminars play an important role in enhancing students' knowledge and 
analytical abilities, he added.

Sociology Discipline Head Prof Dr Abdullah Abu Sayeed Khan presided over the 
seminar.

Dean of the Social Science School Prof Sheikh Sharafat Hossain attended the 
programme as an honoured guest.

Prof Dr Sanjoy Kumar Chand and Assistant Professor Tasnia Tahsin Suha 
conducted the event, which was attended by teachers and students of the 
discipline.