IUB marks july movement anniversary with student-led events
Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) concluded two weeks of student-led events marking the first anniversary of the July Movement with a seminar and a cultural program on August 4, 2025.
The closing day featured Biplobi Protichhobi, a stage play by the IUB Theatre Club, followed by musical renditions of protest songs performed by the IUB Music Club. Hip-hop groups 1230 Classicks, Ragemode, Coldkraft, and Shezan performed original rap tracks that had gained popularity during last year's movement.
Earlier in the day, students from the Department of Media and Communication presented their thesis papers at a seminar titled "Digital Dissent and Its Imaginaries," exploring themes of resistance and activism in the digital age.
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From August 2–4, a series of exhibitions showcased student creativity and engagement with the movement. The Independent Photography Club presented Born in July, featuring images captured by students during the 2024 protests. The Anthro-Socio Club hosted a meme exhibition titled "Control+Alter+Rebel: Meme Voices of July," showcasing digital satire and visual commentary. Meanwhile, the IUB Literature Club hosted the July Memorial Exhibition through Literary Pieces, and the Art Club organised a live painting competition, Reminiscing July.
On 31 July, student clubs Environmental Trailblazers and DEA-IUB jointly organised a community clean-up drive in Bashundhara Residential Area. The initiative was joined by IUB Board of Trustees Chairman Didar A. Husain and Vice-Chancellor Professor M Tamim, who commended the students for their civic responsibility.
The commemorative events began on 25 July with a FIDE-rated chess tournament titled July Memorial, which drew 160 student participants from various institutions. On 30 July, the final match of the inter-departmental futsal tournament was held, drawing a large crowd of supporters and participants. These activities set the stage for the later exhibitions and closing events.
The fortnight of activities reflected the continued commitment of IUB students to civic consciousness, artistic expression, and academic inquiry, while honouring the legacy of the July Movement.
