Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zaher Uddin Swapan MP emphasized the pivotal role that independent media plays in ensuring government accountability during a function at Jahangirnagar University (JU). The event marked the charge handover ceremony and farewell reception of the Jahangirnagar University Journalists’ Association (JUJA).
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister highlighted that a government’s democratic journey becomes more transparent and effective when it remains accountable to its people, with independent media serving as the primary tool for that accountability. He described journalism as a noble profession that ultimately serves the people, who are regarded as the true owners of the nation. The minister also urged journalists to uphold ethical standards and patriotic values while addressing existing challenges in the field.
JU Vice Chancellor Prof Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, who attended the event as the guest of honour, underscored the media’s role in comforting those in distress and discomforting those who unjustly enjoy facilities. He encouraged journalists to act responsibly, ensuring that past governance failures are not repeated, and to engage in constructive criticism while clearly distinguishing it from defamation.
The programme was chaired by outgoing JUJA President Mehedi Mamun, with outgoing General Secretary Abdullah Al Mamun and newly elected General Secretary Razib Rayhan conducting the event. The gathering also featured speeches from various university officials, including Pro Vice Chancellors, the Treasurer, and Deans of different faculties, as well as JUCSU Vice-President Abdur Rashid Jitu, teachers, students, and leaders of political and cultural organizations.
As part of the event’s activities, guests participated in a tree plantation programme by releasing fish fry into the lake in front of the JUCSU building and planting saplings in front of the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC).