BRAC University launches month-long tribute to July–August uprising

BRAC University inaugurated a month-long series of programmes on 16 July 2025 at its Merul Badda campus in Dhaka to commemorate the July–August mass uprising of the previous year.

The observance began with members of the student club Monon performing the national anthem, followed by a prayer led by Professor Dr Md Golam Samdani Fakir, Director of the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre, seeking salvation for the souls of those who sacrificed their lives. Vice Chancellor Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar formally inaugurated the exhibition titled Red July at the university's Exhibition Gallery.

The exhibition features over 100 photographs showcasing the contributions of BRAC University students, faculty, and staff during the movement, as well as artworks inspired by the spirit of the uprising. Archival footage screened at the venue depicts scenes of students marching in protest outside the campus. The exhibition will remain open to visitors until 5 August.

The event also included musical performances by the BRAC University Cultural Club, joined by faculty and staff, followed by a discussion reflecting on the significance of the uprising and honouring the contributions of the university community. Vice Chancellor Professor Anwar interacted with students who were severely injured during the movement.

In his speech, he remarked, "We must rise above all challenges and love our country. Upholding the ethos of BRAC University, we need to work together to serve humanity. Many sacrificed their lives during the July uprising so that we could carry forward their dreams. It would be an injustice to those martyred if we do not fulfil that vision."

Registrar Dr David Dowland, currently on an official visit to China, shared a message via video, saying, "There has been much discussion about youth leadership, and your generation must step up to lead. Leadership involves making thoughtful, sustained contributions to society, grounded in humanity, compassion, and the desire to uplift others."

Treasurer Ariful Islam, Director of Communications Khairul Basher, Acting Dean of the School of Pharmacy Professor Yusuf Haider, Proctor Rubana Ahmed, Acting Registrar Farhan Haq, Director of Operations Sajedul Karim, deans, department heads, teachers, students, and administrative staff all took part in the discussion. Among the attendees were two students who lost vision in one eye due to injuries sustained during the movement. The session was moderated by Tahsina Rahman, Joint Director of Student Life.

As part of the commemoration, BRAC University will also publish a catalogue of the photographs and artworks featured in the exhibition. Hard copies will be distributed among key stakeholders, while a digital version will be made available online.

Throughout July, the university will share commemorative content, including videos and social media posts developed in collaboration with the University Grants Commission and the Ministry of Education. Two faculty members will also be interviewed by national newspapers, with the interviews shared on BRAC University's official platforms.

On 24 July, members of the BRAC University Art and Photography Society are set to participate in a graffiti and artwork competition along the road connecting the Teacher–Student Centre to Doyel Chattar at the University of Dhaka, in partnership with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.