Md. Mafiz Uddin Sarker,  Rangpur

Former adviser to the caretaker government and BRAC chairperson economist Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman said that Begum Rokeya University could not achieve the desired progress in the first 15 years after its establishment. However, the institution is currently on the path of a new revival. He said that now there is a need for a joint initiative of the administration, alumni association and social support platforms to develop the university as a center of high-quality knowledge.

He said these things while speaking as the chief guest at the 17th founding anniversary celebration of Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur today, Sunday (October 12, 2025). Stressing the need for teachers and students with an education-friendly mindset, he said that in addition to filling the infrastructural deficit, a nature-friendly environment must be ensured. Expressing his interest in being associated with the journey of taking Begum Rokeya University forward with new initiatives, he said that if given the right direction, Begum Rokeya University will be able to establish itself as an advanced knowledge institution in North Bengal and the country in the future.

Educationist Prof Dr. Rezaul Haque, Convener of the 'Rangpur University Implementation Coordination Council' during its establishment, said in his inaugural speech that Begum Rokeya University is a shining symbol of the development of higher education not only in North Bengal but also in the entire country. There was a long history of movement and struggle behind the establishment of the university, which has made the educational aspirations of the people of North Bengal a reality. With the establishment of this university 17 years ago, new doors of higher education were opened for the students of the northern region.

The founding Vice Chancellor of Begum Rokeya University, Prof  Dr. M Lutfar Rahman, spoke as the main discussant. He said that the strength of a university lies in the quality of its students, teachers and research. Therefore, now is the time to give top priority to research. Knowledge-based economy and technology-based education are essential to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Prof Lutfar Rahman also said that the development of a university does not mean just building buildings, but developing thinking and consciousness. If we can create an environment of open mind, human values and creativity, then Begum Rokeya University will truly become a center of knowledge and enlightenment.

Kurigram Agricultural University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Rashedul Islam spoke as a special guest. He said that under the strong leadership of the current administration, Begum Rokeya University has already become a renowned higher education institution.

Speaking as a special guest, Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Md. Shahidul Islam said that Begum Rokeya University has already achieved visible progress in education and research. He expressed hope that in the future, this university will play a more effective role in the development of human resources of the country and the production of skilled graduates.

In his speech, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Shawkat Ali said, "After overcoming various challenges since its establishment, we have now reached a renaissance stage." He said, the current administration is working to take the university forward on the path of academic excellence. We have already taken initiatives to expand research opportunities, establish new institutes and research centers. Industry-academic linkages are being strengthened to create opportunities for students to learn in their hands. The Vice Chancellor said, "Our goal is to develop Berobi as a center of international standard knowledge." He also said, "If all the students and teachers of the university perform their duties with honesty, talent and dedication, then very soon Begum Rokeya University will take its place among the leading higher education institutions of the country."

The discussion meeting moderated by the Director of the Student Counseling and Guidance Office, Professor Dr. Md. Ilias Pramanik was addressed by Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, Md. Ferdous Rahman, Convener of the 17th Foundation Anniversary Celebration Committee, Professor Dr. Md. Tajul Islam, Registrar Dr. Md. Harun-or Rashid, President of Sujan Rangpur Metropolitan, Principal Fakhrul Anam Benju, student of the Bangla Department, Shamsur Rahman Sumon, student of the Accounting and Information Systems Department, Ahmadul Haque Alvir, former students Anind Kumar Roy and Abu Sayeed Al Sagar, Founding Officer Additional Registrar Md. Mainul Azad, MLSS of the History and Archaeology Department, Md. Abdul Mannan Mandal, and others. The honored guests were presented with floral greetings and mementos at the discussion meeting. At this time, scholarships were awarded to 5 students from Berobi under the 'Kick Make the Difference Scholarship 2025'. This scholarship is ongoing in Berobi, funded by the Kick retailer brand and supported by the German development agency GIZ International Services.

It is mentioned that on the occasion of the 17th founding anniversary, various programs were held throughout the day with the slogan "Let the spirit of education, research and revolution shine - the future of Berobi". The formalities of the day began with the hoisting of the national flag at 9:30 am. The chief guest of the event, former advisor to the caretaker government, economist Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, hoisted the national flag in front of the main gate of the university by performing the national anthem, and the university flag was hoisted by the convener of the Rangpur University Implementation Coordination Council, educationist Professor Dr. Rezaul Haque and Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Shawkat Ali. Later, the program was inaugurated by releasing balloons and pigeons.

Then, a colourful procession was taken out on the campus to mark the university's founding anniversary. To the beat of music, the procession started from the university campus, passed through Shaheed Abu Sayeed Square, circled the Cadet College intersection and returned to the campus. Teachers, students, officers and employees of various departments of the university participated in this colorful procession. After the procession, the Vice-Chancellor cut the anniversary cake with the honored guests in a joyful atmosphere at the Independence Memorial Ground. In the afternoon, sports competitions were organized with the participation of teachers, students, officers and employees to mark the day. After Asr prayer, a Doa and Milad Mahfil were organized at the Central Mosque. 

Besides,  a pleasant cultural program was organized at the Independence Memorial Ground in the evening. The campus was decorated in various ways, including lighting, to mark the 17th founding anniversary.