A two-day long International Conference on ‘Language Movement and the Emergence of a Bangla-Speaking State in the World’ has begun today April 29, 2024 at Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban Auditorium of Dhaka University (DU). Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. A S M Maksud Kamal presided over the inaugural session while Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury, MP addressed it as chief guest. The Centre for Advanced Research in Arts and Social Sciences (CARASS) of DU has organized this event marking the Diamond Jubilee of the Language Movement.

Head of the Department of History of King’s College, London Prof. Dr. Jon Wilson delivered the key-note speech. Convener of the Conference Organizing Committee Prof. Dr. Fakrul Alam delivered welcome address while Director of CARASS Prof. Dr. Ashfaque Hossain gave vote of thanks. Member of Executive Committee of CARASS Prof. Dr. Shamsad Mortuza conducted the program.

Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhoury urged the researchers to conduct comprehensive researches on our history, culture and language to make Bangladesh a secular country. He said, Language Movement is the symbol of Bangali identity and self-determination. Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman wanted to make Bangladesh as secular and inclusive country by upholding the ideology of Bangali nationalism and pluralism. But anti-liberation forces tried to make Bangladesh as a communal state distorting the real history after killing Bangabandhu in 1975.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. A S M Maksud Kamal said, Language Movement is related to concept of Bangali identity and national aspirations. It upholds the spirit of secularism, democracy and pluralism. He urged the new generation to learn more about the history of Language Movement as well as the outstanding contributions of our great leader Bangabandhu to make an inclusive society. This international conference will generate new knowledge and create enthusiasm among the new generation for making Bangladesh as prosperous country, he hoped.  

(Md. Rafiqul Islam)

Deputy Director

Public Relations Office

University of Dhaka