Dhaka: Teachers, officers, and employees under the Jatiyatabadi Shikkhak-Karmakarta-Karmachari Forum of Jahangirnagar University (JU) observed a black badge wearing programme today, expressing deep mourning at the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, as part of the mourning programme, teachers, officers, and employees gathered at the university’s Shaheed Minar premises at about 11:30 am, wearing black badges to pay tribute to Begum Khaleda Zia. Speaking at the programme, President of the JU Jatiyatabadi Teachers’ Forum, Prof Md Shamsul Alam, highlighted Begum Khaleda Zia’s qualities as a tolerant, patient, and humane leader who dedicated her life to the struggle for democracy.
Prof Alam noted that despite facing repression and injustice for more than 16 consecutive years, Begum Khaleda Zia never expressed hatred towards anyone. Even after being repeatedly confined to her home and imprisoned, her deep love for the country never allowed her to consider leaving Bangladesh.
JU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof Dr Md Mahfuzur Rahman expressed solidarity with the programme, stating that the university family is deeply saddened by the death of the former prime minister. He acknowledged Begum Khaleda Zia’s significant contributions to the country and the democratic process during her three tenures as prime minister.
In light of the tragic news of Begum Khaleda Zia’s demise, the university authorities suspended all classes and examinations. The community further observed mourning by wearing black badges. The programme was conducted by JU Jatiyatabadi Teachers’ Forum General Secretary, Prof Md Jamal Uddin. Among others present were Treasurer Prof Dr Md Abdul Rob, Proctor Prof Dr A K M Rashidul Alam, and Convener of the Jatiyatabadi Teachers, Officers, and Employees Forum, Prof Mafruhi Sattar.