Islamic University (IU) in Kushtia celebrated its 47th founding anniversary on Saturday with colourful and festive programmes, including a rally, cake-cutting ceremony, release of balloons and doves, floral tributes and a commemorative discussion session.

Events began at 11:00 am on the central football field with the performance of the national anthem followed by the hoisting of the national and university flags. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah inaugurated the day-long celebration by hoisting the national flag, while Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. M. Yeaqub Ali hoisted the university flag. A cake-cutting ceremony and the symbolic release of balloons and pigeons were held afterward.

Later a vibrant rally led by the Vice-Chancellor, marched through various campus roads with attendees from all departments and residential halls, each carrying their respective banners. The procession ended at the university’s foundation stone, where floral wreaths were placed.

A special prayer was offered seeking blessings for the university’s founder, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. Later, a discussion meeting was held at the Birshreshtha Hamidur Rahman Auditorium, presided over by the convener of the Day Celebration Committee, Prof. Dr. Alinoor Rahman.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah attended the event as the chief guest. Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. M. Yeaqub Ali, Treasurer Prof. Dr. Jahangir Alam and leaders of various teachers and employees associations also addressed the programme.

As the first public university established in independent Bangladesh, IU marked the day with various participatory events. Teachers, officers, employees, students, and representatives from student organisations took part in the rally. Floral tributes were also offered by the student wing JCD, the teachers association UTAB, and the Zia Parishad.

In the discussion session, the Vice-Chancellor said, ‘Islamic University was established on this day in 1979 by the late President Ziaur Rahman. My heartfelt thanks to all members of the university community on this occasion.’

He added, ‘Thanks also to those working for the advancement of this institution, including journalists from print and electronic media. In the coming years, IU will emerge as a model institution in terms of education, safety and environmental standards.’