DHAKA, Dec 30, 2025 (BSS)- Teachers, officers and employees under the Jatiyatabadi Shikkhak-Karmakarta-Karmachari Forum of Jahangirnagar University (JU) observed a black badge wearing programme today, expressing deep mourning at the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

As part of the mourning programme, teachers, officers and employees gathered at the university's Shaheed Minar premises at about 11.30 am wearing black badges to pay tribute to Begum Khaleda Zia.

Speaking at the programme, President of the JU Jatiyatabadi Teachers' Forum Prof Md Shamsul Alam said Begum Khaleda Zia was a tolerant, patient and humane leader who dedicated her entire life to the struggle for democracy.

He said despite enduring repression and injustice for more than 16 consecutive years she never expressed hatred towards anyone.

Even after being repeatedly confined to her home and imprisoned, her deep love for the soil of the country never allowed her to think of leaving Bangladesh, he added.

Expressing solidarity with the programme, JU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof Dr Md Mahfuzur Rahman said the university family is deeply saddened by the death of the former prime minister. 

Begum Khaleda Zia made significant contributions to the country and the democratic process during her tenure as prime minister three times, he added.

Following the tragic news of demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, the university authorities suspended all classes and examinations and observed mourning by wearing black badges.

JU Jatiyatabadi Teachers' Forum general secretary Prof Md Jamal Uddin conducted the program. Treasurer Prof Dr Md Abdul Rob, Proctor Prof Dr A K M Rashidul Alam, and Convener of the Jatiyatabadi Teachers, Officers and Employees Forum Prof Mafruhi Sattar were present, among others.