North South University (NSU) organised a discussion and cultural program on the occasion of Martyr’s Day and International Mother Language Day 2024 at NSU Auditorium.
Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury, Education and Cultural Affairs Adviser to the Honourable Prime Minister was present as the Chief Guest. Javed Muneer Ahmad, Chairman, of the Board of Trustees, NSU, Mrs. Seema Ahmad, Member of the NSU Board of Trustees and Mrs. Yasmin Kamal, Member of the NSU Board of Trustees were present as the Special Guests. NSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Atiqul Islam presided over the function.
The program began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the rendition of the national anthem, and a one-minute silence as a profound mark of respect for the memory of the martyrs.
Professor Abdur Rab Khan, Treasurer and Pro Vice-Chancellor (Acting) of NSU delivered the welcome speech. In his speech, he urged the youth to speak in Bangla instead of mixing Bangla and English.
Dr. Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury emphasized the close relationship between culture and language, stating, “Nationhood and nation-building are not synonymous.” He continued, asserting, “Nations are founded with the purpose of becoming a nation. There must be a distinctive characteristic to signify this intention. For Bengalis, this distinguishing feature is the Bengali language.” Despite facing oppression from its inception, the significance of this language has always been upheld by all Bengalis, Dr. Chowdhury concluded.
Javed Muneer Ahmad expressed that the remarkable Ekushey February stands as a glorious milestone in the thousand-year history of the Bengali nation. He highlighted the pivotal role played by North South University in fostering and advancing Bengali language and culture.
Mrs. Seema Ahmad said that the language acquired through the movement has yet to permeate all spheres of society. She stressed the critical importance of introducing the Bangla language at all levels. Mrs. Ahmad underscored, “If we cherish Bengal, if we cherish its soil, then we must cherish our mother tongue.”
Mrs. Yasmin Kamal said that Bangla has now become a mere formality. She observed that on Ekushey February, expressions of love for the language abound, but there is a pervasive neglect of Bangla in other spheres. Mrs. Kamal urged for an active effort to eradicate this negligence and ensure the widespread use of Bangla across all domains.
Professor Atiqul Islam highlighted that the Bangla language originated among the common people but has often been overlooked by the higher classes of the society. He stressed the importance of transcending class and career boundaries, advocating for individuals from all walks of life to be conscious of the need for Bengali to attain global recognition as a language.
NSU Shangskritik Shangathan (NSUSS) and NSU Cine and Drama Club presented a fascinating cultural program at the end of the event.
