Establishing an inequality-free society is the true objective of independence, Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor ABM Obaidul Islam said.
“The achievement of Bangladesh’s independence is the highest glory for the nation,” said Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor ABM Obaidul Islam while presiding over a discussion at the Teacher-Student Centre auditorium on Sunday.
“The core goal of independence was to eliminate social inequality and ensure economic, social and democratic emancipation,” he added.
The discussion titled “Significance of the Great Independence and National Day” was attended by Dhaka University Pro-VC (Administration) Sayema Haque Bidisha as the distinguished guest.
The spirit of independence will be fully realised only when every citizen enjoys equal rights, justice and freedom of expression, he said.
Dhaka University Faculty of Pharmacy Dean Md Selim Reza spoke as a teacher representative, while Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) General Secretary SM Farhad addressed the event as a student representative.
Dhaka University Acting Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed conducted the programme.
Leaders of Dhaka University Officers’ Association, employees’ associations, Technical Employees’ Association, Freedom Fighters’ Institutional Unit Command and Dhaka University Martyred Families Welfare Association also spoke.
Dhaka University has played a significant role in every historic achievement from the Language Movement to the Liberation War and anti-autocracy movements, he said.
The genocide of March 25 in 1971 remains a brutal example of atrocities committed at the university and across the country, he added.
He paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War and prayed for the salvation of their souls, while also honouring those who sacrificed their lives in various democratic movements.
“Although more than 50 years have passed since independence, a gap still remains between expectations and achievements,” he said.
He expressed hope to advance the country towards prosperity and called for collective efforts to build an equitable, democratic and humane society.
