Bangladesh Catholic University Honors Teachers, Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam at Joint Celebration

Notre Dame University Bangladesh (NDUB), a Catholic university in Dhaka, marked Nazrul Year and World Teachers’ Day on October 13, with speakers highlighting the role of educators in shaping national identity and the enduring influence of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

The event, held at the university auditorium, honored teachers and celebrated the ideals of Nazrul, whose writings and advocacy for truth and justice continue to influence Bangladesh’s cultural and national life.

Professor Dr. Fr. Charles B. Gordon, CSC, vice-chancellor-designate and pro-vice-chancellor, said personal values were essential to building a nation and that teachers helped connect its history with its future.

“Teachers build the bridge that connects a nation’s past achievements with the construction of its future,” he said.

Referring to Nazrul’s contribution, Fr. Charles added that the poet’s ideals and powerful writings had built a bridge that continued to inspire successive generations.

The program began with a minute of silence in memory of the university’s former vice-chancellor, Fr. Benjamin Costa, CSC. Students then performed a welcome dance and presented flowers and gifts to their teachers as expressions of gratitude.

The ceremonial lighting of candles was led by Fr. Charles, alongside Dr. Br. Subal Lawrence Rozario, CSC, registrar; Fr. Placid Rozario, CSC, proctor; and Professor Dr. Alok Kumar Chakraborty, dean.

Other speakers included Professor Alok Kumar, Associate Professor Dr. Md. Zamir Hossain of the Department of English, and Priyanti Leticia Rebeiro, a student in the Department of Microbiology. They expressed appreciation for teachers and their contribution to education and society.

The celebration also included the distribution of prizes to students who took part in competitions organized for Nazrul Year. Violinist Mahmudul Hasan and his ensemble performed classical music dedicated to the poet.

Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899–1976), known as Bangladesh’s national poet, is remembered for his literary works challenging oppression and advocating freedom, equality and social justice. His writings remain an important part of the country’s cultural heritage.

World Teachers’ Day, observed internationally on October 5, recognizes the contribution of teachers and highlights the importance of supporting the teaching profession. The university’s joint celebration brought these themes together by honoring educators while reflecting on the values and cultural legacy that shape Bangladesh’s national identity.