EMK Center harbinger of positive changes: US

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Earl R Miller has mentioned the EMK Centre as a harbinger of positive changes and symbol of investment, partnership and commitment from the United States to Bangladeshi people, says a press release.

He made the remark while gracing as chief guest at the Boshonto Utshab 1427, organised at Midas Center at Dhanmondi in the capital on Sunday, in order to celebrate the advent of spring.

The Edward M Kennedy (EMK) Center, a non-partisan platform committed to open dialogue, is co-managed by the American Center of the US Embassy in Dhaka University and the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB).

At the event, Miller said like the banyan tree Senator Kennedy planted 49 years ago on Dhaka University premises, EMK Center is a proud living symbol and tribute to the friendship, resilience, and hope, the release adds. 

"It's a dynamic platform, committed to positive changes to public service as well as playing a vital role as a vibrant space for open dialogue," he added. 

To celebrate the spirit of spring, EMK Centre and the Department of Dance of the University of Dhaka jointly organised the EMK Boshonto Utshab 1427 this year virtually. 

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Akhtaruzzaman shared a video message on this occasion where he thanked EMK Center and the Department of Dance of the University of Dhaka, for upholding the culture of Bangladesh even during the pandemic.

Professor Rezwana Chowdhury Banya, chairman of the dance department of DU, welcomed the guests and invited them to celebrate the spirit of spring together.

Acting Director of EMK Center Asif Uddin Ahmed gave his vote of thanks. The programme ended with a performance by Ektara, a female-led music band. 

A group of performers attended the cultural part of the programme with a group dance performance along with drums beats, which was followed by a Rabindra sangeet by music school Shurer Dhara.

The celebration of spring also marks the 49th anniversary of Senator Edward M Kennedy's visit to Bangladesh in 1972 to embolden the friendship among the people of the two countries.

He planted a banyan tree at the premises of Dhaka University in front of the Arts Building on 14 February, 1972 during his visit as a token of friendship between the people of Bangladesh and the United States.

However, this year, due to the pandemic and social safety measures, the celebration was organised at Midas Centre of the capital's Dhanmondi and was telecast virtually over the Facebook page and YouTube channel of EMK Center.