CUET Holds Discussion on November 7

Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) held a discussion meeting marking National Revolution and Solidarity Day, with speakers highlighting the historical events of November 7, 1975, and the significance of national unity and solidarity. They also called for effective initiatives to resolve the university’s ongoing crisis.

The meeting was held online through Zoom at 10:30am on Saturday, November 7, under the joint initiative of the CUET Teachers’ Association, Officers’ Association and Staff Association. Earlier in the morning, the national flag was hoisted on the university campus to mark the day.

Teachers, officers, employees and students attended the meeting. Professor Dr Mohammad Ahsan Ullah, president of the CUET Teachers’ Association, chaired the event, while its joint secretary, Md Samiun Basir, moderated the discussion.

General students spoke at the beginning of the meeting. Other speakers included Mohammad Jamal Uddin, president of the CUET Staff Association; Engineer Syed Mohammad Ikram, president of the Officers’ Association; Professor Dr Mohammad Mizanur Rahman of the Department of Mechanical Engineering; and Professor Dr Ziaul Haider of the Department of Chemistry.

In his presidential address, Professor Dr Mohammad Ahsan Ullah discussed the historical events of November 7, the political situation at the time and the circumstances surrounding the release of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.

He said that the unity and solidarity between soldiers and the people after November 7 marked the beginning of multiparty democracy in the country. He also said the spirit of national unity and solidarity later inspired Bangladesh to enter a new chapter on August 5, 2024.

He further said that unity and solidarity were essential to overcoming any crisis. Urging people to respect one another’s views despite political differences, he called for collective efforts in the national interest. He also expressed gratitude for the united stance and cooperation of CUET’s teachers, officers, employees and students amid the university’s current situation.

Engineer Syed Mohammad Ikram praised the united position taken by CUET’s teachers, officers, employees and students during the university’s current crisis. He called for collective efforts to address the situation through mutual cooperation and solidarity in the greater interest of the country.

Staff Association President Mohammad Jamal Uddin said national unity was the central spirit of November 7. He said crises could be addressed if people from all walks of life—including students, workers and professionals—stood together. He urged everyone to continue working collectively in the interests of the country and the institution.

Professor Dr Mohammad Mizanur Rahman of the Department of Mechanical Engineering recalled the historical role of former president Shaheed Ziaur Rahman. He said that patriotic citizens could overcome any crisis by remaining united, adding that the history of November 7 offered that lesson. He urged everyone to contribute to the country’s development and prosperity from their respective positions. He also sought necessary intervention from the Prime Minister for a swift and effective resolution of CUET’s current crisis.

Professor Dr Ziaul Haider of the Department of Chemistry discussed the historical background and significance of November 7. Considering the ongoing crisis at CUET and the overall interests of the university, he also urged the Prime Minister to reconsider the demands that had been raised.

Speakers expressed their commitment to sustaining the country’s progress through national unity, solidarity and mutual respect. They also called on all concerned to take effective initiatives to resolve the ongoing crisis at CUET.

Meanwhile, the university’s Directorate of Student Welfare has organised an essay competition for students to mark the day. A special prayer and supplication programme was also held at the university’s central mosque after Asr prayers.

//DBTech/CHMRH/SME/MIST//