Rajshahi: Rajshahi University (RU), the second largest public university in the country, celebrated its 72nd founding anniversary in a befitting manner amid a festive mood.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the day’s programs commenced with the rendition of the national anthem and the hoisting of national, university, and hall flags. The celebration was marked by the release of pigeons, festoons, and colorful balloons in front of the administrative building at 10:30 am. Notable attendees included Education Adviser Prof Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar and RU Vice-Chancellor Prof Saleh Hassan Naquib, alongside other high-ranking officials.
Participants also engaged in tree planting activities. During his speech, Vice-Chancellor Prof Saleh Hassan Naquib highlighted the university’s unique contribution to knowledge development and the generation of competent human resources since its inception. He noted that many alumni have made significant contributions in various development fields both domestically and internationally.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to reach international standards in education, addressing issues related to student meals, accommodation, research, and healthcare. In commemoration of the day, teachers, students, and officers organized a rally that traversed different campus streets. Additionally, the university authorities conducted a discussion at the senate building, chaired by the Vice-Chancellor.
RU began its journey on July 6, 1953, with just 161 students and 68 teachers across six departments under three faculties. Today, the university boasts over 1,050 teachers in 58 departments across 12 faculties, as well as six research institutes and approximately 38,000 regular students, including 26 international students. The university also features 18 residential halls, six of which are designated for female students, and the Shaheed Mir Abdul Kayyum International Dormitory for international students and researchers. Current academic endeavors include 47 PhD and 116 M.Phil fellows, in addition to 149 researchers. The university’s inaugural Vice-Chancellor was Professor Itrat Hossain Zuberi.