Commemorating the 49th anniversary of martyrdom of Dr Shamsuzzoha, the Rajshahi University (RU) authorities observed ‘Zoha Day’ as Teachers’ Day on the campus in a befitting manner today.
On this day in 1969, Dr Shamsuzzoha was shot dead by Pakistani military junta in front of the RU main gate as he rushed there to protect the students marching towards the town violating Section 144.
Zoha was the RU proctor and a teacher of the Chemistry department. His death sparked violent protests across the then East Pakistan, leading to the fall of autocratic Ayub regime. Dr Zoha is the country’s first Martyred Intellectual.
Marking the day, the RU authorities chalked out elaborate programmes like hoisting of black flag atop all dormitories, administrative and academic buildings, placing of wreaths at Zoha’s grave and offering special prayers and holding doamahfil at the central mosque.
Vice chancellor Prof Abdus Sobhan, Pro-VC Prof Ananda Kumar Shaha, Treasurer Prof Mustafizur Rahman and Registrar Prof Abdul Bari accompanied by other officials, teachers and students of the university placed wreaths at Dr Zoha’s grave and memorial plaque.
RU Chemistry department in association with the university authorities organised the Zoha memorial lecture at the auditorium.
Progressive Teachers’ Society (PTS), teachers’ and officers’ associations, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), Rajshahi University Journalists’ Association (Ruja) and different socio-cultural organisations held discussions and offered special prayers in observance of the day.
Shaheed Shamsuzzoha Hall also arranged a discussion. RU Chemistry department brought out a silent procession on the campus to mark the day.
Shaheed Smrity Sangrahashala remained open for all from 7 am to 5 pm in observance of the day.
