Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Nov 5, 2025 (BSS) - University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Professor Dr. S M A Faiz today urged students who took part in the July Mass Uprising to uphold the spirit of the movement, saying the nation holds high expectations from the 'July warriors' who played a key role in restoring democracy.

"You are the warriors of change. The world admires your courage, and the nation values your contribution," he said.

He made the remarks while addressing a workshop titled "Social and Emotional Wellbeing of University Students", jointly organized by UGC and UNESCO at the UGC auditorium in the capital, said a press release.

Professor Faiz urged the participants of the July movement to remain united and cautious so that no misunderstanding or controversy arises regarding their role in the democratic struggle.

The event was chaired by Mst. Jesmin Pervin, Director (current charge) of UGC's International Collaboration Division.

UGC members Prof Dr. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan, Prof Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Prof Dr. Masuma Habib and Prof Dr. Mohammad Ayub Islam also spoke as special guests.

Highlighting the importance of mental health, Professor Faiz said ensuring students' social and emotional wellbeing is essential to help them overcome the trauma caused by the July incidents. 

He also announced that UGC will soon hold a national seminar to commemorate the July movement.

Students from 22 public and private universities, including July movement participants Rifat Howlader, Sanjida Tonni, Robius Sani, Mahfuza Khatun and Umama Fatema attended the workshop.

Under the UNESCO-supported project on Social and Emotional Wellbeing, UGC will provide social and mental health services to 10,000 students from 22 universities starting this November, the release added.