Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University (MBSTU) in Tangail commemorated the 48th death anniversary of Mawlana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani by organizing a discussion titled "Democracy, Sovereignty and Mawlana Bhashani."
The event, held on Saturday (November 16, 2024) in the seminar hall of the university's third academic building, was well-attended by students, faculty and staff.
The program featured Professor Salimullah Khan from the Liberal Arts department as the chief guest, while MBSTU Vice-Chancellor Md. Anwarul Azim Akhand chaired the session.
The keynote address was delivered by Syed Irfan-ul Bari, a teacher of the Mawlana Bhashani Studies course. Professor Sajjad Wahid from the ICT department, who served as the convener of the seminar subcommittee, welcomed the attendees.
In his keynote, Professor Salimullah Khan highlighted the multi-faceted life of Mawlana Bhashani, noting his significant contributions across three major stages of his life: in India, Pakistan, and Assam. "Mawlana Bhashani was a politician from head to toe," he said, emphasizing Bhashani's lifelong dedication to political and social causes, including his resistance to British colonial rule and his advocacy for an Islamic socialist vision.
Professor Khan also drew attention to current societal challenges such as unemployment and the lack of robust democratic practices. He underscored the need for comprehensive improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to achieve true democracy. "Socialism is realized when democracy is fully achieved," he stated, calling on students to advance Bhashani's unfinished work for a more equitable society.
The session featured insightful discussions from various faculty members, including Muhammad Umar Farooq, Dean of the Life Science Faculty; Professor A. K. M. Mohiuddin from the Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Department; Professor Md. Matiur Rahman from Computer Science and Engineering; and Dr. Nur-Jahan Khatun, Associate Professor from Criminology and Police Science. The event was skillfully moderated by Associate Professor Ziaur Rahman from the ICT Department.
Participants, including teachers, students, and university officials, engaged actively in the dialogue, reflecting on Mawlana Bhashani's enduring legacy and the relevance of his vision in contemporary Bangladesh.
The event concluded with a call for the younger generation to carry forward the dreams and ideals of Mawlana Bhashani, fostering a society rooted in democracy and social justice.