Rajshahi University (RU) authorities observed 'Zoha Day' as 'Teachers' Day' on campus today. Photo: BSS

 
RAJSHAHI, Feb 18, 2025 (BSS) - Commemorating the 56th anniversary of 
martyrdom of Dr Shamsuzzoha, the Rajshahi University (RU) authorities today 
observed 'Zoha Day' as 'Teachers' Day' on the campus in a befitting manner.
 
On this day in 1969, Dr Shamsuzzoha was shot dead by the then 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 throughout the then East Pakistan, leading to the 
fall of the autocratic Ayub regime. Dr Zoha is the country's first Martyred 
Intellectual.
 
The RU authorities chalked out elaborate programmes, including hoisting of 
black flag atop all dormitories, administrative and academic buildings, 
placing of wreaths at Zoha's grave, Zoha Memorial Lecture and offering 
special prayers and holding doa mahfil at the central mosque, marking the 
day.
 
Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Saleh Hassan Naquib and Pro-VCs Prof Farid 
Uddin Khan and Prof Mayeen Uddin accompanied by other officials, teachers and 
students of the university placed wreaths on Dr Zoha's grave and memorial 
plaque.
 
The Zoha Memorial Lecture was held at Teachers Students Cultural Centre with 
the title of 'Our Education Thinking'.
 
The VC addressed the lecture session as the chief guest while Pro-VCs Prof 
Farid Uddin Khan and Prof Mayeen Uddin spoke as special guests. 

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 8 am to 5 pm in 
observance of the day.
 
Local units of the BNP and its front organisations also observed the day 
through placing wreaths at Zoha's grave paying rich tribute to him.