DHAKA, – Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today urged the new generation to follow the life and ideals of National Professor Rafiqul Islam.

“We would not proceed, if we can’t honour those who are working relentlessly to take forward the country, the nation and the society,” he told a discussion at an auditorium of National Museum here.

Swadhinata Foundation organized the discussion and screening of a documentary on the life and works of National Professor Rafiqul Islam with its Chairman Dr M Amzad Hossain in the chair.

Hasan said those working relentlessly for building a developed nation for the future generation should be honoured. But, it is regretful that most people are becoming self-centered, he added.

The minister said, “We should discuss the life and works of the eminent personalities who are working for literature, human values and national development as well. We need to take lessons from Professor Rafiqul, the veteran language movement hero, freedom fighter and the teacher of Prime Minister Shiekh Hasina.”

Professor Rafiqul was born in Kolmakanda village in Matlab upazila of Chandpur district on 1st January in 1934. He was the first ‘Nazrul Professor’ of Bangla Department of Dhaka University and first director of ‘Nazrul Research Center’ of DU.

He was awarded ‘Swadhinata Padak’, ‘Ekushey Padak’, ‘Bangla Academy Award’ and ‘Nazrul Academy Award’ for his outstanding contributions. He was made ‘National Professor’ on June 19 in 2018.

International Mother Language Institute Director General Dr Zinnat Imtiaz Ali and Writers’ Club Chairman poet Muhammad Nurul Huda addressed the function as special guests.

Professor Rafiqul Islam gave thanks to all for honouring him.