Amid widespread protest on campus for the removal of Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Farzana Islam, the authorities of Jahangirnagar University observed its 49th founding anniversary on Sunday.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Farzana Islam and Pro Vice Chancellor (administration) Prof Dr Md Amir Hussain, inaugurated the day long program by releasing balloons and hoisting the national flag on campus in the morning.
The VC started her inauguration speech by greeting former and current students, teachers, officers, and other employees of the university, saying: "Though our university started operation in 1970, it officially began its academic programs on January 12, 1971.
"We have made various arrangements to celebrate the 49th founding anniversary. I welcome all of you to enjoy the celebrations with your family and friends," she added.
Among others, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof Dr MdNurulAlam, Registrar RahimaKaniz, Treasurer Prof Sheikh MdMonjurulHaque, Proctor ASM FirozUlAlam, senate members, and former and current students, were present at the occasion.
Vice Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Dr Farzana Islam along with teachers and students of the university at a rally in the university campus on Sunday, January 12, 2020 | Dhaka Tribune
Following the inaugural ceremony, a joy rally was brought out on campus, which later ended at the Selim Al DeenMuktomancha. Resident students of the halls, members of various organizations, officers, workers, and teachers joined the rally.
As part of the celebrations, various cultural programs were also organized by the Students Counselling and Guidance Centre at the Selim Al DeenMuktomancha, a traditional puppet show (putulnatto) was staged under the direction of Prof DrHarunur Rashid Khan, a mime show was performed by Rangan Mime Academy, and a concert was staged by "Nakshikatha band."
Meanwhile, the protesting students and teachers of the university staged a sit in procession around 9am at the university transport terminal demanding the immediate removal of the VC on allegations of corruption.
Later, they brought out a protest rally carrying a black flag and marched around campus.
The general secretary of the JU unit of Student Union said: "There is no need to investigate such a corrupt VC. She should be removed from her position immediately."
Professor Sayeed Ferdous said: "If she (Prof Farzana) was not guilty why did she employ terrorists to attack us? Why is it taking so long to investigate the matter?"
