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Dhaka University (DU) is celebrating its 106th founding anniversary today with a vibrant array of programmes, commemorating its historic role in the nation’s democratic, cultural and educational development.
This year’s theme, “Restoration of Democracy and Higher Education at Dhaka University,” reflects the institution’s enduring commitment to academic excellence, democratic values and intellectual leadership.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam extended his greetings and congratulations to current and former teachers, students, researchers, guardians, officers and staff members on the occasion. He called for the collective cooperation of all stakeholders to sustain the university’s academic advancement and preserve its rich legacy while adapting to the demands of a modern higher education system.
A Century-Long Legacy of Leadership and Struggle
Established on July 1, 1921, as the premier residential university in the region, Dhaka University has played a pivotal role in shaping the political, cultural and intellectual history of Bangladesh.
The university emerged as the epicentre of numerous democratic and rights-based movements, including the historic Language Movement of 1952, during which its students made the ultimate sacrifice to establish Bangla as a state language.
In 1969, Dhaka University became the focal point of the mass uprising against military rule, which ultimately paved the way for Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971. On March 2, 1971, student leaders hoisted the first flag of an independent Bangladesh at the Arts Faculty premises, marking a defining moment in the nation’s struggle for independence.
The university also suffered immense losses during the genocide carried out by the Pakistani occupation forces on March 25, 1971, when numerous distinguished teachers, students and intellectuals were killed.
Continuing its long-standing tradition of resistance against oppression and advocacy for democratic rights, Dhaka University also served as a major centre of the historic July Uprising of 2024.
Colourful Celebrations Across Campus
To mark its 106th anniversary, the university has organised a series of colourful and commemorative events across the campus.
The celebrations began at 9:30 am with the gathering of teachers, students, officers and staff members from various residential halls at the “Smriti Chirantan” square. At 9:45 am, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam led a grand procession across the campus, joined by alumni, faculty members and students.
The formal inauguration ceremony commenced at 10:00 am at Payra Chattar in front of the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC). During the ceremony, the national flag, university flag and residential hall flags were hoisted, followed by a ceremonial cake-cutting programme.
Teachers and students of the Department of Music performed the national anthem, the university theme song, Rabindra Sangeet and Nazrul Sangeet. International students also participated in the celebrations with a special cultural performance, highlighting the university’s diverse academic community.
The university authorities have arranged various academic, cultural and commemorative programmes throughout the day to celebrate the institution’s rich heritage and contributions to the nation over the past 106 years.
