Hasina’s image during anthem, two NSTU teachers show-caused
NSTU Correspondent
An image of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina appeared on a projector screen while the national anthem was being played at an event at Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) on Thursday, prompting the university administration to issue show-cause notices to two teachers of the Department of Microbiology.
The incident took place at 11:00 am at the Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Mohammad Ruhul Amin Auditorium during a two-day programme organised by the department marking International Microorganism Day-2026.
According to those present, the image appeared for around 10 seconds at the end of a YouTube video being played on the projector during the national anthem. The incident drew the attention of guests, following which Treasurer Prof Dr Md Hasan Uddin immediately protested. The anthem was subsequently played again using audio only.
The two teachers who received the notices are Dr Khandaker Fahmida Sultana, associate professor and convener of the programme, and Prof Dr Firoz Ahmed, chairman of the Department of Microbiology.
University Registrar (Acting) Mohammad Tamzid Hossain Chowdhury confirmed the issuance of the notices.
The notices said that displaying Sheikh Hasina’s image during the national anthem constituted misconduct and was contrary to service discipline. The teachers were asked to explain their positions within three working days.
Dr Khandaker Fahmida Sultana said the incident was unintentional and resulted from the video not being properly reviewed beforehand.
“Due to the busy schedule of the workshop, the video was not properly reviewed. After noticing the issue, we immediately stopped it and played the national anthem through audio,” she said.
Prof Dr Firoz Ahmed said the image appeared for about 10 seconds and that the students responsible for the programme did not initially notice it.
“After the matter came to our attention, we expressed regret, and the student concerned also apologised,” he said.
Treasurer Prof Dr Md Hasan Uddin said displaying Sheikh Hasina’s image during the national anthem was unacceptable.
“There were three foreign scientists and our students present. To prevent any untoward situation, I delivered a brief statement and left the programme,” he said.
He added that the programme convener and department chairman were expected to oversee the necessary rehearsal and preparations before the event.
The university administration is seeking an explanation from the concerned teachers over the incident.
