The Dhaka University (DU) celebrates 106th founding anniversary. Photo: BSS

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

The theme of this year's celebration is 'Restoration of democracy and higher education at Dhaka University'.

On the eve of the day, DU Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Dr Obaidul Islam extended his warm greetings to current and former teachers, students, researchers, guardians, and staff members.

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

A century-long legacy of movements:

Established on July 1, 1921, as a premier unitary residential institution of higher learning, the university emerged as the nerve centre 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 uprising 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 epicentre of the historic July Uprising in 2024.

To mark the 106th anniversary, a series of colourful programmes is being held on the campus today.

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

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

The formal inaugural ceremony began at 10am at Payra Square in front of the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC). During the opening event, the national flag, university flag, and respective hall flags were 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 by international students.

The DU authorities have arranged various programmes to mark the day.