UTAB today paid tributes at the grave of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia by placing wreaths in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 9, 2026 (BSS)- University Teachers Association of Bangladesh (UTAB) today paid tributes at the grave of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia by placing wreaths and fateha at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar here.
 
After paying tribute, UTAB President Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam said the demise of Begum Khelada Zia in a crucial time is an irreparable loss for the nation.

“Khaleda Zia sacrificed everything for the country, including her husband, child and home, and endured imprisonment and deprivation of medical treatment. Despite doctors’ advice to seek treatment abroad, she did not leave the country,” he added.

Dr. Obaidul Islam said Begum Khaleda Zia fought throughout her life for democracy and people’s rights and was known as an uncompromising leader. 

UTAB Secretary General Professor Dr Md Morshed Hasan Khan said Begum Khaleda Zia personally approved UTAB in 2012 by signing the document, marking the beginning of the organisation’s journey. 

“She realized the need for a teachers’ organisation that believes in the ideology of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and a full nationalist spirit,” he added.

UTAB stood beside her in major movements under her leadership and that no one could compensate her sacrifices. 

He expressed hope for a free and fair election through which the BNP under the leadership of Tarique Rahman would get the opportunity to serve the country.

UTAB Treasurer and Dhaka University Sada Dal Joint Convener Professor Dr Md Abul Kalam Sarkar, Dhaka University Sada Dak Joint Convener Professor Dr Abdus Salam, National University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Lutfar Rahman, and several other senior academics were present.

Professor Mohammad Sabirul Islam Howlader of the Arabic Department of Rajshahi University conducted the prayers.