Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has stressed the need to restrict the free entry of outsiders into Chittagong University (CU) to maintain a healthy and education-friendly atmosphere.
Speaking as the chief guest, he said the movement of unauthorised individuals must be checked regardless of their political or religious affiliations.
Khosru made these remarks on Friday at 10:30am during a discussion meeting following the inauguration of the “Saraswati Gyan Mandir” at the university.
In his address, the minister expressed his vision for a tolerant, sensitive, humane, and stable nation, noting that a country cannot progress without these four essential qualities. He urged collective efforts to build Bangladesh upon these values.
Regarding the university, he described CU as being situated within an extraordinary natural environment, likening the campus to a forest or a natural resort.
Khosru highlighted the unique potential for creating wildlife and bird catalogues, as well as opportunities for conservation and research within the vast, enriched forest area. He warned that failing to properly utilise this potential would be a misfortune.
“Plans must be adopted to take Chittagong University to the ‘next level’ and place it among the best in the country,” he said. Khosru identified a correct mindset, quality educators, strong teacher-student relationships, and a modern curriculum as essential factors for this transition.
He added that development is only possible if the institution’s current standing is honestly acknowledged.
Special guest and State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mohammed Mir Helal Uddin highlighted the communal harmony of the Hathazari area.
Helal pointed out that people of all faiths collaborate on the development of religious institutions, including mosques, temples, pagodas, and churches.
He noted that recent proposals for renovating temples or crematoriums came from the general public rather than specific committees, proving the region’s strong social fabric. The event was presided over by CU Vice-Chancellor Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan.
Other notable attendees included Bijan Kanti Sarkar, special assistant to the Prime Minister; ABM Abdus Sattar, principal secretary; and CU Pro-Vice-Chancellors Dr Mohammed Shamim Uddin Khan (Academic) and Dr Mohammad Kamal Uddin (Administration).
Adul Kanti Chowdhury, chairman of the Adul-Anita Trust, and Co-Chairman Anita Chowdhury were also present at the ceremony.
