The Vice-Chancellor of Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Professor Dr. Mahmood Abdul Matin Bhuiyan, remarked that the youth hold the key to transforming the nation. He made these comments on Sunday evening while addressing a commemoration ceremony honoring the martyrs and injured of the anti-discrimination movement and a cultural program reflecting on the events of the July uprising.
The event, held at the university’s central auditorium, was presided over by Professor Dr. Md. Mahbubul Alam, Director of the Student Welfare Department. Speaking on behalf of the deans, Professor Dr. Muhammad Rashidul Hasan, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning, delivered his remarks. Professor Dr. Md. Mizanur Rahman, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Professor Dr. Md. Mamunur Rashid, representing the provosts, also addressed the gathering.
In his keynote speech, the CUET Vice-Chancellor said, “Students from CUET, alongside other universities, have demonstrated through their struggles and unity that the foundation of national transformation lies in the hands of the youth. Many of our students actively participated in this movement. Their extraordinary contributions fill us with pride. CUET students played a pivotal role in accelerating the movements in Chattogram and Dhaka, and their efforts deserve high praise. This path of struggle was far from easy. CUET students endured immense persecution during this time. It is through such sacrifices that we can now sense a new freedom. I firmly believe that if our students remain inspired, aware, and courageous, CUET will not only continue to advance but will also propel the nation toward a brighter future. We must preserve this legacy and foster the same spirit in the next generation.”
Student representatives also spoke at the event, including Mahfuzur Rahman Mohabbat, Coordinator of CUET’s anti-discrimination movement and a student of the Civil Engineering Department; Isfak Ahmed Jim, a detainee of the July uprising from the EEE Department; and Sad Bin Mostafa from the MIE Department. The program was moderated by Tasmiya Binte Hai, a lecturer in the MIE Department.
The ceremony began with a minute of silence to honor the martyrs of the anti-discrimination movement. The Senior Imam of CUET’s central mosque, Hafiz Mawlana Qari Nurullah, recited verses from the Quran, translated them, and led a special prayer seeking blessings for the martyrs, the nation, and the CUET community.
A documentary on the July movement was screened, followed by reflections from participants, injured individuals, and those who endured imprisonment during the movement. The event concluded with a cultural evening centered on the July uprising.
