Dhaka, July 2 (V7N) - Dhaka University marked its 104th founding anniversary on Tuesday with a series of vibrant and inclusive events, including a colorful procession, discussion sessions, patriotic musical performances, and decorative lighting on key campus landmarks.
 
The celebrations began at 9:30 a.m., as teachers, students, officials, and staff from all residential halls, hostels, and administrative offices gathered at the Smriti Chirantan monument. From there, a grand anniversary procession—led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan—paraded through the campus, symbolizing the university’s rich academic and political legacy.
 
At 10:00 a.m., a ceremonial flag hoisting and cake-cutting event was held at the TSC’s Pigeon Square, with national, university, and hall flags raised in unison. A special discussion session titled “Dhaka University in Building an Inclusive and Equitable Society” took place at the TSC auditorium, where UGC Chairman Professor Dr. S.M.A. Faiz presented the keynote paper.
 
During the discussion, a commemorative publication was also unveiled.
 
In his keynote, Dr. Faiz emphasized:
 
“Dhaka University is not merely an academic institution; it is the symbol of the nation’s self-identity, a root of civilization, and a cradle of the country’s liberation movements. Its greatest achievement lies in its inclusive nature, where rich and poor, rural and urban, men and women, majority and minority—all are given equal dignity.”
 
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan reflected on the university’s humble beginnings in 1921 with just 60 teachers and 877 students, noting that today it stands as Bangladesh’s largest higher education institution, with nearly 40,000 students and 2,000 faculty, and over 200 affiliated institutions accommodating around 150,000 students.
 
“This is a source of immense pride,” he said.
 
He also reiterated the university’s historical and ongoing commitment to social movements:
 
“Dhaka University’s role was never confined to academics. From the Language Movement in 1952, the mass uprising in 1969, the Liberation War in 1971, to the anti-autocracy movement in 1990—our contributions are written in golden letters. The 2024 people’s uprising is a new chapter in that legacy.”
 
“Those who gave their lives in the fight for justice entrusted us with a responsibility—to uphold a quality learning environment, mutual respect between teachers and students, and to always stand with the people,” the VC said.
 
To mark the occasion, university landmarks including the Vice Chancellor’s residence, Curzon Hall, Arts Building, and the TSC were lit up with dazzling light decorations.
 
The celebration also featured cultural performances, including the national anthem and patriotic songs performed by the Music Department, as well as a performance by international students, adding a global touch to the occasion.
 
Speakers at the discussion also included Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, and Treasurer Professor Jahangir Alam, among others.
 
The 104th founding anniversary of Dhaka University served not only as a celebration of the past but also as a recommitment to academic excellence, inclusion, and national service.
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