Rajshahi, July 14 (V7N) – A ceremonial procession and discussion session took place at the University of Rajshahi on Monday to commemorate Women’s Progress Day and the anniversary of the July Uprising. Organized by the university administration, the event began at 10:10 AM in front of the administration building. Participants marched across campus and concluded at the Senate Building, where the discussion followed. Around 400–500 individuals—including faculty, students, officials, and staff—took part.

The program’s chief guest was Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Saleh Hasan Nakeeb. Also present were Pro–Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Mohammad Main Uddin, Pro–Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr. Farid Uddin Khan, Treasurer Professor Dr. Matiar Rahman, and Acting Registrar Professor Dr. Iftikharul Alam Masud.

During the procession, Law Department student Sanjida remarked, “Compared to any other movement, last year women played a much larger role. The images of women being abused motivated us to join the protests. As a woman, I feel proud that today is being observed to remember their role.”

Professor Abdur Rahim Mia, administrator of the university’s legal cell and a faculty member in the Law Department, added, “Although women’s participation in past movements was limited, during the July uprising they stood face-to-face with police gunfire and fought back. Their courageous spirit will inspire future generations. From now on, women will stand equally alongside men in any movement. That’s why we organized today’s march and discussion.”

In his speech, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Saleh Hasan Nakeeb said, “In the July uprising, we didn’t see extraordinary people; we witnessed ordinary people doing extraordinary deeds. People from all backgrounds joined the streets to claim their rights against injustice. No single individual orchestrated this uprising—it succeeded through collective participation. Women stood shoulder to shoulder with men. To further increase women’s involvement in all spheres, society must be educated.”

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