Dhaka:Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, Professor Dr. ABM Obaidul Islam, highlighted the enduring impact of Shaheed Professor Govinda Chandra Dev's philosophy, emphasizing its inspiration for humanity, rationalism, and moral values.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Dev is celebrated for his rational inquiry, non-communal outlook, mutual harmony, and the ideal of universal brotherhood, making him a distinguished figure in Dhaka University's intellectual tradition.
The remarks were made during the "Dev Memorial Lecture 2023 and 2024" at the RC Majumdar Arts Auditorium, organized by the university's Govinda Dev Philosophy Research Centre. The event was presided over by DU Pro-VC (Academic) Prof Dr. Abdus Salam, with the Dean of the Faculty of Arts Prof Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Sarkar as a special guest.
The lectures featured Prof Dr. Shah Kawsar Mustafa Abululayee on "Universality of Sufi Philosophy" and Professor Siraj Salekin on "Reading and Learning." The Director of the Govinda Dev Philosophy Research Centre, Prof Md. Nuruzzaman, moderated the session. Attendees observed a minute of silence in memory of Prof Dev.
The Vice-Chancellor noted Dr. Dev's efforts in fostering dialogue among philosophical traditions and his quest for understanding human existence, emphasizing that philosophy should be a medium for reflecting on life, society, and human roles. Despite advances in science and technology, he warned of ongoing crises in peace, security, and moral values, advocating for moral excellence alongside knowledge and prosperity.
Prof Obaidul Islam underscored the philosophical connection between the lectures' topics, linking spiritual realization with intellectual development. He stressed the importance of universities in fostering research, independent thinking, and discussions on Prof Dev's contributions.
Pro-VC Prof Dr. Abdus Salam emphasized that memorial lectures are vital for presenting thinkers' legacies to future generations and called for early ethical development, highlighting the role of universities in knowledge dissemination.
The event was attended by teachers, students, and officials from various university departments.