Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU) observed National Revolution and Solidarity Day on Saturday through a rally, discussion meeting, prayer session and special religious prayers.
The day's programme began with a rally at 11am from the university's administrative building premises. The procession passed through important roads on the campus before a discussion meeting was held at the university tennis court.
The meeting was chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Sohel Hasan, with Gopalganj-2 MP Dr KM Babar attending as the chief guest. Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Ataur Rahman and Treasurer Professor Dr Md Khasrul Alam were present as special guests.
Addressing the programme, Dr Babar said November 7 was not merely a commemorative day but an important milestone in the nation's identity, self-reflection and future state-building.
He said the uprising of soldiers and civilians had brought Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman to national leadership. Later, as president, Ziaur Rahman worked with dedication to establish Bangladesh as a self-reliant nation and strengthen its position internationally.
He added that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman was carrying forward his father's ideals, with national interests placed above all other considerations.
Calling on university teachers and officials to support the government's development initiatives, the MP said collective efforts could help transform the university into a model institution.
In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Sohel Hasan said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman remained an inspiration for his ideals and leadership.
Referring to the principle that the country comes before individuals and political parties, he said everyone should prioritise Bangladesh's interests.
He stressed that collective efforts, along with greater emphasis on education and research, were essential to achieving national development and advancing the university.
Special guest Professor Dr Mohammad Ataur Rahman said Bangladeshi nationalism emerged on November 7, 1975, when Ziaur Rahman assumed national leadership and played a significant role in establishing solidarity.
Professor Dr Md Khasrul Alam said the unity demonstrated by soldiers and civilians had helped the nation overcome a critical period when its independence and sovereignty were under threat.
He urged students and young people to contribute to building a country free from discrimination and corruption while protecting national independence and sovereignty.
President of the university's Nationalist Teachers' Council Dr Mahbub Hasan, its General Secretary Dr SM Ahsan, Gopalganj District BNP Member Secretary Advocate Abul Khayer, university unit Chhatra Dal President Durjoy Shubho and General Secretary Aminul Islam Bidyut also addressed the meeting.
Deans of different faculties, departmental chairpersons, teachers, students, officials and employees attended the programme.
Meanwhile, a prayer session was held after Zuhr prayers at the university's central mosque, seeking forgiveness for the souls of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia. A special prayer was also held at the central temple in the afternoon.
