News Flash
DHAKA, May 13, 2025 (BSS) - The sixth edition of Dhaka University's (DU) Interfaith Harmony Debate Festival ended on Tuesday at Professor Muzaffar Ahmed Chowdhury Auditorium, marking celebration of 'World Interfaith Harmony Week'.
Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Adviser Farida Akhter addressed the programme as chief guest while DU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Sayema Haque Bidisha joined as special guest at event organised by World Religions Debating Club.
Renowned writer and river researcher Sheikh Rokon delivered keynote paper titled "River and Religion in Evolution of Civilization", with History Department Associate Professor Dr. Shahidul Hasan participating in discussion.
Chaired by World Religions Debating Club President Asma Sultana Liza, it was also addressed by Department chairperson Professor Dr. Md. Abu Sayeem, Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue Director Professor Dr. Mohammad Elias, club moderator Md. Didarul Islam, Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS) President Jubayer Hossain, DUDS General Secretary Ragib Anjum and Creative Business Group Chief Operating Officer Zia Uddin Mahmud.
Club General Secretary Nuruddin Muhammad conducted proceedings.
Adviser Farida Akhter stressed the importance of debate practice, saying, "Students must engage more in debate to guide society in right direction."
She pointed out deep links between rivers and Bangladeshi culture, calling for collective efforts to preserve rivers, nature, environment and biodiversity.
Pro-VC Bidisha emphasised debate's crucial role in developing interpersonal communication and critical thinking skills, noting profound connections between rivers, religion, nature and humanity.
"July Uprising succeeded through participation of people from all religious and ethnic backgrounds, strengthening our religious and social unity," she highlighted, urging youth to maintain this harmony while building reason-based, humane society.
A total of 32 debating teams across various universities took part in the debate competition. Bangladesh Agricultural University's Faculty of Veterinary Science team clinched championship, while Dhaka University Law Department team secured runner-up position.
