DU Correspondent

A two-day International Multifaith Workshop began at the Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Building of Dhaka University on Monday, with the aim of building an inclusive society and fostering religious harmony.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan inaugurated the workshop as the chief guest. The workshop was jointly organized by the Dhaka University Center for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, the US-based Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN), and the Bangladesh Institute of Islamic Thought (BIIT).

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by the convener of the workshop organizing committee and Director of the Center for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Professor Dr. Mohammad Ilias, and the Supernumerary Professor of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies of Dhaka University, Dr. Sukomal Barua, MFNN co-founder Dr. Bob Roberts Jr., Islamic Society of North America Chairman Imam Mohammad Majid, eminent nuclear scientist Prof Dr. M Shamsher Ali, President of IRF Secretariat Nadine Mayenza, Senior Vice-President of Institute of Global Engagement James Chen, Director General of BIIT Prof Dr. M Abdul Aziz, Head of Bangladesh Catholic Church Archbishop Bijoy N. D. Cruz and Managing Committee Member of Ramakrishna Mission in Dhaka Swami Ambeshananda spoke as special guests. Senior Advisor of Global Muslim Affairs Syed Muktadir delivered the welcome address.

Dhaka University VC Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan emphasized on establishing peace and harmony in the society and said, we are going through a transitional period. At this time, everyone, regardless of religion or caste, will have to work together. Referring to the July Uprising as a milestone in the country's history, he said, "We must learn from this uprising and eliminate all inequalities in society.