Dhaka University (DU) has begun rewriting graffiti painted on campus walls during the July mass uprising as part of an initiative to preserve the memories and messages associated with the movement.
Vice-Chancellor Professor ABM Obaidul Islam inaugurated the repainting and restoration programme at the main gate of his residence on Saturday morning.
The university administration said the restoration work will continue from 1 to 3 August at different locations between the vice-chancellor’s residence and Rokeya Hall, while keeping the original themes, messages and significance of the graffiti intact. Registered students and artists are participating in the programme.
Speaking at the inauguration, Professor Obaidul Islam said the July graffiti represented memories of the repression and injustices during the previous government’s rule.
He said the initiative was taken to preserve those memories and keep them alive among the public.
He said students and citizens took to the streets during July-August 2024 against injustice and oppression, and the graffiti created during that period reflected the history of the mass uprising and the struggles of the time.
The vice-chancellor said future generations would be able to learn about the events through these artworks and carry forward the spirit of resistance against authoritarianism.
He urged people to remain alert against any future rise of authoritarianism and called for collective efforts to build an equitable society.
The inauguration programme was attended by Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Abdus Salam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Mohammad Almozzadded Alfezani, Treasurer Professor M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts Professor Md Azharul Islam Sheikh, Proctor Md Israfil Prang, Director of the Arboretum Culture Centre Professor Mohammad Jasim Uddin, and teachers and students.
Meanwhile, a discussion meeting marking the second anniversary of the July mass uprising is scheduled to be held at Amar Ekushey Hall auditorium on Saturday evening.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Obaidul Islam is expected to attend as chief guest, while Sarjis Alam, chief organiser of the northern region of the National Citizen Party (NCP), will attend as special guest.
Earlier on 29 July, the Department of Microbiology organised a discussion titled “July Revolution and the Student-People’s Mass Uprising”, where students shared their thoughts and expectations about the future of Bangladesh.
Faculty members and student advisers also took part in the programme.
