RAJSHAHI, July 6, (V7N) – Education Adviser Prof Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar today stated that Bangladeshi universities, along with many other institutions, were on the verge of losing their unique character due to the "15-year fascist regime."

Addressing a discussion at Rajshahi University (RU) as the chief guest, held to commemorate its 72nd founding anniversary, Prof Abrar remarked, "When fascism went to the extreme, the rights-conscious students raised their voices strongly and finally ousted the fascist government through a mass upsurge."

He acknowledged the heavy cost of this movement for the assertion of rights, stating, "We have removed the autocratic rule through the movement for the assertion of rights. We have also lost more than 1,000 courageous and potential students."

The Education Adviser emphasized the critical need to dedicate the victory achieved through the mass uprising towards nation-building. "We need qualitative change in the education sector like other fields and quality teachers have become indispensable for the cherished change," he asserted, expressing hope that the university teachers' community would strive to achieve this goal.

The discussion was chaired by RU Vice-chancellor Prof Saleh Hassan Naqub, with contributions from Pro-vice-chancellor Prof Mayeen Uddin, Treasurer Prof Matiur Rahman, and Proctor Mahbubur Rahman. Professor Emeritus of the Department of Physics, Prof AKM Azharul Islam, delivered the focal address.

During the event, a souvenir containing writings and reminiscences from 11 retired teachers, including two Professor Emeriti, was unveiled.

Prof Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar reiterated that there is no alternative but to achieve the cherished goals for the nation. He stressed that upholding the dignity of educational institutions should be the primary duty of teachers in building a new Bangladesh. While acknowledging existing limitations, he urged a forward-looking approach, noting that the present interim government has a farsighted target of reform, which will not be possible overnight. He concluded by reminding all patriotic citizens to proceed with patience for the construction of a new Bangladesh.

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