President Mohammed Shahabuddin today said the Dhaka University is the bearer of Bangladesh's glorious history and heritage and has long been a centre of the country's political, social and national awakening.

“Political, social and national consciousness of the nation developed centering the University of Dhaka, and in continuity of that process, an independent and sovereign Bangladesh emerged,” the Head of State said in a message issued on the eve of the 105th Dhaka University Day slated for tomorrow (July 01)

In the message, he said the university, one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the subcontinent, has been playing a unique role in expanding advanced education, promoting the pursuit of knowledge and science, and fostering innovation since its inception.

On the occasion, the President extended his heartfelt greetings and warm felicitations to all members of the DU family, including present and former teachers, students, officers and employees.

Mohammed Shahabuddin recalled the contribution of the university's students to all democratic movements and struggles in the country, including the historic Language Movement, the long struggle for independence, the Great Liberation War, the anti-autocracy movement of the 1990s and the 2024 mass uprising, as outstanding and glorious.

The university's contribution to higher education, research, humanity, the practice of free thinking, and the development of education, literature and culture is unforgettable, he pointed out.

The President said the institution has been playing a significant role in every sphere of national life by producing skilled human resources, professionals, intellectuals and visionary leaders as well.

This year's theme, “Restoration of Democracy and Higher Education at Dhaka University”, is both timely and relevant, he observed.

The head of state said the university must move forward in line with the rapidly changing world and make its education and research curricula more modern and time-oriented.

“Maintaining its glorious tradition and academic excellence, the DU will continue to stand beside the people at critical junctures of national life and make positive contributions to the country's development and progress in the future as well,” he hoped.

The President wished continued prosperity of the university and the overall success of all programmes undertaken to mark the day.