With profound respect and heartfelt remembrance, Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) observed the 74th Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day, honouring the valiant language martyrs whose sacrifice immortalized Bangla on the world stage.
The day began at 7am with the national flag flown at half-mast at the university’s 36th July Square, followed by the wearing of black badges by teachers, students, officers and staff symbolising a collective pledge to transform grief into strength, reads a press release.
A dignified provatferi, led by Vice-Chancellor GKM Mustafizur Rahman, marched across the campus and concluded at the Central Shaheed Minar, where floral tributes were placed in solemn remembrance.
In his emotional address, the Vice-Chancellor described February 21 as an “eternal source of inspiration and struggle,” noting that Bangla remains the only language in history for which people laid down their lives now globally recognised through International Mother Language Day.
He emphasized that the spirit of the Language Movement paved the way for the Liberation War in 1971, recalling the declaration of independence by Ziaur Rahman, which led to the birth of a sovereign Bangladesh.
Referring to the recently concluded 13th National Parliamentary Election, he remarked that the peaceful and participatory environment reflected the people’s aspirations and helped restore democratic continuity.
He extended his heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the newly formed Cabinet, wishing them success in serving the nation.
The Vice-Chancellor further urged all to remain united in safeguarding the dignity, sovereignty and hard-earned legacy of Bangladesh against any anti-national forces.
The day concluded with special prayers at the university’s central mosque, seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of the martyrs.
