Dhaka University is celebrating 106th founding anniversary today. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, June 30, 2026 (BSS) - The Dhaka University (DU) is celebrating its 106th founding anniversary today with a vibrant array of programmes.

This year's theme is 'Restoration of democracy and higher education at Dhaka University'.
 
DU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Dr. Obaidul Islam extended his warm greetings to current and former teachers, students, researchers, guardians, and staff, on the occasion. 

He sought the proactive cooperation of all to sustain the academic advancement of the university and modernize its legacy.

A CENTURY-LONG LEGACY OF MOVEMENTS:

Established on July 1, 1921, as a premier unitary residential seat of higher learning, the university emerged as the nerve center of all major democratic and rights-based movements in this region.

It was the epicentre of the historic 1952 Language Movement (Bhasha Andolan), where its students sacrificed their lives to establish Bangla as a state language. 

In 1969, the university spearheaded the historic mass upsurge against military dictatorship, paving the way for the Liberation War of 1971.

On March 2, 1971, student leaders proudly hoisted the first flag of an independent Bangladesh at the DU Arts Faculty building.

The university paid a heavy price during the genocide unleashed by the Pakistani occupation forces on the night of March 25, 1971, losing numerous illustrious faculty members and students.

In keeping with its historic tradition of resisting tyranny, Dhaka University served as the birthplace and primary epicenter of the historic July Uprising in 2024. 

To mark the 106th anniversary, a series of colorful curated programmes is taking place on the campus today. 

The day's events began at 9:30am as teachers, students, officers, and staff from all residential halls assemble at the 'Smriti Chirantan' (Eternal Memory) square. 

Following the assembly, Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Dr ABM Obaidul Islam led lead a grand rally across the campus at 9:45am, joined by alumni, faculty, and students.

The formal inaugural ceremony commenced at 10:00am at the Payra Square in front of the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC). During this opening event, the national flag, university flag, and respective hall flags remained hoisted, followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting. 

Teachers and students of the Department of Music performed the National Anthem, the University Theme Song, as well as Rabindra Sangeet and Nazrul Sangeet, alongside a special musical performance presented by international students.

The DU authorities are arranging various programmes to mark the day.