Algerian embassy in Dhaka today solemnly observed the 69th anniversary of National Student Day. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, May 19, 2025 (BSS) - Algerian Ambassador to Bangladesh Abdelouahab Saidani today underlined need for enhance education cooperation between Bangladesh and Algeria through student exchange programs, inter-university partnerships and academic collaboration.

He made the call when Algerian embassy in Dhaka solemnly observed the 69th anniversary of National Student Day, marking a pivotal moment in Algeria's historic struggle for independence.

The commemoration began with the hoisting of the Algerian national flag, followed by a minute of silence in memory of the martyrs. The Algerian national anthem was played on the embassy premises as part of the ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Algerian Ambassador paid tribute to the brave Algerian students who, on 19 May 1956, suspended their studies to join the national liberation movement, demonstrating unparalleled patriotism and courage.

"This day marks a defining chapter in Algeria's long and arduous struggle for independence," said the ambassador, recalling how the General Union of Algerian Muslim Students (UGEMA) issued a historic call for students to abandon academic pursuits in favour of national duty under the powerful slogan: 'Diplomas do not make better corpses'.

Describing the student movement as a deliberate and patriotic act of defiance rather than a mere protest, Ambassador Saidani said it significantly strengthened the National Liberation Army (NLA) and united Algerians from all walks of life in the demand for freedom.

"Today, we honour that generation of students whose commitment showed that true patriotism lies not in privilege, but in purpose," he added.

Highlighting Algeria's progress since independence, the ambassador noted significant advances in literacy and the expansion of the higher education sector, underscoring education as a cornerstone of Algeria's national development.

Addressing Bangladeshi and Algerian students attending the event, Ambassador Saidani urged them to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of their Algerian counterparts in 1956 and to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to education and nation-building.

"Drawing inspiration from this movement will encourage you to further contribute to the development of both the countries and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Algeria and Bangladesh, two friendly and brotherly nations considered as pillars of the Islamic Ummah, through inter-university exchanges, student exchanges and programs," he said.

"May we always honour the sacrifices of the past by building a brighter, stronger and more equitable future," the ambassador concluded.

The event was attended by diplomats, students from Bangladeshi and Algerian universities and invited guests, who lauded the shared commitment of both nations to education, development, and solidarity.