NSU pays tribute at shaheed minar, holds language day discussion

North South University (NSU) observed Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day 2026 with wreath-laying ceremonies and a discussion session on campus.

Wreaths were placed at the Central Shaheed Minar and at the Shaheed Minar on the NSU campus to pay tribute to the language martyrs. A discussion session was held at the university's AUDI-801 auditorium.

Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman of NSU's Board of Trustees, attended as chief guest, while Benajir Ahmed, Founder Life Member and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees, was present as special guest. Dr Salimullah Khan, Professor in NSU's Department of History and Philosophy, delivered the keynote speech. The session was chaired by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of NSU.

Also present were Professor Nasar U Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor of NSU; Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer of NSU; deans of four schools, faculty members, administrative heads, officials, and students.

The programme began with recitation from the Holy Quran, the national anthem, and a one-minute silence in memory of the language martyrs. In his welcome address, Professor Nasar U Ahmed recited a self-composed poem on the significance of Bangla as the mother tongue.

In his keynote speech, Salimullah Khan stated, 'Language is not just a tool for acquiring knowledge. It is more than a medium of learning and communication; it is a profound marker of our identity. While we should embrace the study of other languages alongside Bangla, it must never come at the cost of our mother tongue.'

Benajir Ahmed stated, '21 February marked the beginning of a new chapter in our national life. In honour of the sacrifices made during our Language Movement, UNESCO declared this day as International Mother Language Day. We hope that the new generation will continue to uphold the dignity and spirit of the Bangla language.'

Aziz Al Kaiser stated, 'Language requires practice. To establish Bangla on the global stage, we must strengthen regular language practice, research, and creative work. Everyone must remain conscious about the proper use and preservation of our mother tongue.'

Vice-Chancellor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury stated, 'There is no room to undermine the importance of our mother tongue. Language unites us; it does not divide us. Many nations have reached the pinnacle of progress through education and research in their own languages. To move forward as a nation, we must further enrich education, research, and creative activities in Bangla.'

The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Treasurer Abdur Rob Khan.