The founding anniversary of the national daily “TIMES of Bangladesh” (TOB) was celebrated at Jamalpur Science and Technology University (JUSTU) in a grand and festive atmosphere on Monday.
The day was observed at noon with a cake-cutting ceremony and a special discussion meeting held at the JUSTU Journalists’ Association (JUSTUJA) office.
The function was presided over by Muslim Ibn Robi, President of JUSTUJA and campus correspondent for TIMES of Bangladesh, while the Registrar of the university, Sarwar Jahan, attended as the chief guest.
Addressing the event, Registrar Sarwar Jahan emphasised objective journalism, saying that practising journalism on university campuses nurtures students’ intellect, creativity, and leadership skills.
“Through presenting truthful and neutral news, TIMES of Bangladesh has already earned the trust of the country’s intellectuals and general readers,” he said, expressing optimism that the newspaper would continue working for the development of the nation, education, and the country while remaining free from external influences.
He added that organising such an event at the JUSTUJA office demonstrates the vibrancy of campus journalism, wishing the newspaper continued success and longevity.
Speaking as a special guest, Md Mirajul Islam, immediate past president of JUSTUJA, described the occasion as historic and joyful, marking the first time the founding anniversary of any national daily has been celebrated at the JUSTUJA office.
He shared that he reads the daily regularly and praised its presentation style, choice of topics, and modern arrangement while wishing it a successful journey ahead.
Saimum Sabbir Shobhon, Jamalpur district correspondent for TIMES of Bangladesh, noted that since starting its journey with fresh enthusiasm and a modern layout, the daily has published several impactful objective reports that quickly won over readers. He called upon everyone to read the newspaper regularly, expressing confidence in its distinct approach to news delivery.
In his presidential speech, Muslim Ibn Robi said that TIMES of Bangladesh plays a unique role as a symbol of truth and objectivity in Bangladeshi journalism. Operating under the slogan “Window to the World” and combining print and digital technologies, the daily aims to bring national and international affairs to its readers.
He highlighted that since its inception, the publication has adhered to independent and objective principles free from political, commercial, or external influences, serving as a trusted source of news across politics, economy, technology, and culture through the professionalism of young journalists.
The ceremony was attended by JUSTU Acting Proctor Dr Mohammad Shadiqur Rahman, Asia Post Jamalpur Correspondent Shaown Molla, Hridoy Ahammad Shaown of Jago News, JUSTUJA Joint General Secretary Md Nayeem Islam of Asia Post, Finance Secretary (The Daily Check post) Md Ikram Mahmud Pradhan, Office Secretary (The Student Journal) Miraj Hossain, and Ahaduzzaman Ananta of Nabadhara, alongside general members and journalists working across various media outlets on campus. The festive gathering brought renewed enthusiasm to the campus journalism arena.
