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Journey of Jagannath University

Published : Monday, 14 October, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 476
Safa Akter Nolock
October 20 marks the anniversary of Jagannath University, a renowned educational institution located in the historic Old Dhaka. Established on October 20, 2005, this university, situated near Sadarghat in Dhaka, has achieved significant milestones in a short span of time.

The journey of Jagannath University began with the declaration of Jagannath College as a full-fledged university. For 19 years, this institution has upheld the principles of education, faith, and discipline.

Jagannath University became a complete university through the passage of the Jagannath University Act, 2005, in the National Parliament. 

Historically and culturally significant, Jagannath University was not originally a full-fledged university. It was previously known as Jagannath College, which was established in 1858 as the Dhaka Brahmo School and was renamed Jagannath College in 1872. This name was given in honor of Kishore Lal Ray Chowdhury, a zamindar from Balaitari in the Saturia upazila of Manikganj district.

Founded in 1858, this college was upgraded to a second-class college in 1884 and to a first-class college in 1908. Although it was nationalized in 1968, it was privatized again the following year.

When the University of Dhaka began its establishment in 1921, the undergraduate programs of Jagannath College were discontinued, and the degrees, students, faculty, and library materials were transferred to the University of Dhaka.

Currently, Jagannath University has approximately 18,000 students, 960 academic staff, and 850 administrative staff, operating under 6 faculties with 36 departments and 2 institutes.

Jagannath University is linked to various prominent figures and the history of the independence movement. The Liberation War sculpture on the campus symbolizes this glorious history. Recently, in the Simago Institution Ranking 2022, Jagannath University secured the first position among public universities in Bangladesh in the field of chemistry research according to international standards.

At present, the university is placing significant emphasis on education and research, with Imdadul Haq serving as the current vice-chancellor. The first vice-chancellor of this prestigious institution was Professor Dr. A.K.M. Sirajul Islam.

In the 150-year history of Jagannath University, various limitations have affected university life over the 16 years of its existence. However, gradually, plans are being developed to overcome these limitations.

October 20 is Jagannath University Day, a day of joy and celebration for the university's students. On this day in 2020, the only female dormitory, Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Hall, was inaugurated.

University Day is a much-anticipated event for any university. Both teachers and students eagerly await this day each year, as it brings to mind the university's rich history and heritage. For Jagannath University, this is no different. The campus is relatively small, yet it is filled with various challenges. Still, a festive atmosphere seems to linger throughout the month. When the celebrations conclude, the students' spirit is not diminished; instead, it becomes stronger. The essence of the festival stays alive in the hearts of every young student.

On University Day, Jagannath University transforms completely. The atmosphere is filled with celebration, and everywhere you look, you see girls in colorful sarees and boys in vibrant Punjabi. Every student wears a broad smile, and the campus comes alive on this day. Students begin preparing for this beauty several days before the event. With joyful faces, they rush around with colors, pencils, or colored paper, all with the single aim of beautifying their campus. On University Day, the entire campus is adorned in this vibrant spirit. Some students are busy taking pictures, others are laughing with friends, and many are enjoying various cultural performances. This day is celebrated with great joy by the students, marking a cherished occasion for all.

Jagannath University Day is not only a day of joy for current students but also attracts alumni who immerse themselves in the festivities. Some return to enjoy the day with old friends, while others come with their families. It's common to see an alumnus or current student sharing stories of their university experience with the youngest members of their family, showing them the beautifully decorated campus.

This year, like every year, Jagannath University Day will have a unique celebration. The theme for this year's event is "Fearless JnUians Empowered by the July Revolution." The day will honor the spirit of the July Revolution and the martyrs, with various gatherings planned. New students will also be welcomed on this day, creating an atmosphere of excitement surrounding their arrival. Jagannath University Day signifies the existence of its students, who aspire to advance and reach greater heights while honoring their legacy and history.

As this year marks the 19th anniversary of Jagannath University Day, several programs have been organized. Various events will take place throughout the day. The formal proceedings will begin at 8:00 AM with the Vice-Chancellor hoisting the national flag and the university flag at the Jagannath University Memorial area, followed by the national anthem. At 10:30 AM, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, will inaugurate the day by releasing balloons and doves at the open stage.

From 9:00 AM, there will be an exhibition of fine arts and paintings by the university students. Following this, an enjoyment rally will take place, culminating at 11:30 AM with the unveiling of the Jagannath University declaration plaque by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. The unveiling will be conducted by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim.

Subsequently, at 11:20 AM, a welcoming ceremony for the new students and a discussion will be held at the open stage in celebration of the 19th anniversary of Jagannath University. At 1:25 PM, a prayer meeting will be held in memory of the martyrs of the anti-discrimination student movement and for the recovery of the injured.

Finally, from 3:00 PM, the day's activities will conclude with cultural programs at the open stage, featuring the participation of Jagannath University students, faculty, staff, and various university organizations, all centered around the theme of the July Revolution 2024.

Jagannath University is a vast surge of vitality confined within a small campus. Built on just 30 acres of land, any event held here creates a unique atmosphere. With the university day approaching, this excitement is palpable on every face across the campus.

The writer is a student, Department of Philosophy,   Jagannath University



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