Bangladesh Open University Vice-Chancellor A B M Obaidul Islam paid tribute to Khaleda Zia and offered prayers at her grave on Sunday afternoon.
The tribute was paid at around 3:30pm at Zia Udyan, where Khaleda Zia was laid to rest beside the grave of martyred president Ziaur Rahman. Floral wreaths were placed at the grave as a mark of respect.
Following the tribute, a special Doa and Munajat were offered seeking forgiveness for the departed soul of Khaleda Zia. The prayer was conducted by Mohammad Abdullah Al Mamun, Pesh Imam of the university’s Central Jame Mosque.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr A B M Obaidul Islam recalled Khaleda Zia’s role in democracy, education and nation-building, saying her leadership would remain memorable in the country’s history.
He said Khaleda Zia played a firm role from the anti-autocracy movement to the restoration of parliamentary democracy and made a lasting contribution to the expansion of education. He said the establishment of Bangladesh Open University under her leadership opened higher education opportunities for underprivileged, working and marginalised people, calling it a landmark step in nation-building.
He also said her sacrifice, courage and foresight as a stateswoman would continue to inspire future generations with patriotism, morality and democratic values.
Among those present were Treasurer Professor Dr Abul Hasnat Md Shamim, Registrar (Additional Charge) Professor Md Anisur Rahman, along with deans of various schools, faculty members, directors, regional directors, heads of sub-regional centres, and officers and staff from different levels of the university.
