DU Correspondent

A museum titled “July Memorial Museum” was officially inaugurated on Monday on the second floor of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) building. An inaugural discussion was also held at the DUCSU cafeteria following the event.

Established to honor the memory of those martyred and injured during the historic July 2024 mass uprising, the museum reflects the university’s commitment to preserving this pivotal chapter of national history.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan presided over the event, with Education Adviser Prof. Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar attending as the chief guest. The Pro-Vice Chancellor (Admin) and Chair of the July Memorial Museum Committee, Prof. Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha, delivered the welcome address. The program was conducted by Prof. Robayet Ferdous of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism.

Also present were Treasurer Prof. Dr. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury; family members of the martyrs including Alhaj Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan (father of martyr Farhan Faiyaz), Shafiul Alam (father of martyr Wasim Akram), Mir Mostafizur Rahman (father of martyr Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdho), Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdho (brother of Mugdho), and Abu Hossain (brother of martyr Abu Sayeed); deans, proctors, department chairs, institute directors, hall provosts, faculty members, student leaders, and injured students from the uprising.

A special prayer was offered for the souls of the martyrs and the recovery of the injured, led by Associate Professor Dr. Muha. Rafiqul Islam of the Arabic Department.

Education Adviser Prof. Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar praised the university for its sustainable initiatives surrounding the uprising, stating: “This museum is one of many initiatives. The martyrs sacrificed their lives for the country and to end discrimination. Their blood inspired a nationwide movement and gave birth to a new Bangladesh by toppling authoritarianism. Even thirty years from now, students visiting this museum will ask why these young people gave their lives — and they will understand.”

He emphasized that Dhaka University has long been a cradle of democratic movements, and the events of 2024 are part of that legacy. “Once, we feared we would die as subjects denied of rights. But due to these martyrs, we didn’t. Despite challenges, we can now speak freely. For that, we are forever indebted to the martyr families.”

He concluded by affirming the nation’s commitment: “We will carry forward the martyrs’ vows, and despite all obstacles and conspiracies, we will ensure justice for their killings.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan, in his presidential remarks, said: “Today’s event is merely a token of our gratitude. Though opened on a limited scale, this museum will gradually be expanded into a full-fledged national archive. It must rise above political rivalry and hatred. We won’t allow the continuity of 1969, 1971, 1990, and 2024 to be distorted.”

Prof. Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha, in her welcome address, noted that: “To preserve the memories of the uprising and its martyrs, we undertook this initiative. Families have generously donated personal belongings of the martyrs, for which we are grateful. The project is ongoing and not yet complete.”

During the discussion, several relatives of the martyrs delivered emotional speeches: Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan, father of Farhan Faiyaz: “Faiyaz had no desire for a government job, yet joined the movement against inequality and was shot through the chest. We hope to fulfill the dream of the just and beautiful Bangladesh for which he died.” Shafiul Alam, father of Wasim Akram: “My son was deliberately shot beneath his beltline. He didn’t protest just for jobs. We want a country free of discrimination.”Mir Mostafizur Rahman, father of Mugdho: “My son provided water and biscuits, tried to protect the bodies from being taken by police, and arranged medical aid for the injured. He was targeted and killed. We demand justice.”Abu Hossain, brother of Abu Sayeed: “Their sacrifice has inspired the nation. Let the discrimination-free Bangladesh they dreamed of be realized. Let no one else need to protest for basic rights.”

The museum stands as a powerful symbol of resistance, remembrance, and hope for a just and inclusive future.