North South University (NSU), in collaboration with the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation (JSSF), organised the “July Uprising 2024 Commemorating Program” on Monday, July 27, 2026, at the NSU Central Auditorium to honor the memory of the martyrs and reflect on the significance of the July Uprising 2024. The event brought together distinguished policymakers, academics, public representatives, and students in paying tribute to the sacrifices made in the movement while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to democracy, justice, and freedom, a press release said.
Md. Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Political Adviser to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Adviser, Ministry of Industries, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, attended the event as the Chief Guest. Benajir Ahmed, Member and Former Chairman, Board of Trustees, North South University; and Samantha Sharmeen, Senior Joint Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP), joined as Special Guests. Professor Salimullah Khan, Director, Liberation War Research Center, North South University, delivered the keynote address, while Lt. Col. (Retd.) Kamal Akbar, Chief Executive Officer of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, delivered a special speech and presented a documentary. Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University, chaired the program. The program concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Professor Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor, North South University.
The event commenced with a one-minute silence in memory of the martyrs, followed by a special prayer, the National Anthem, and the July theme song. Documentary screenings highlighted the sacrifices made during the movement, while NSU students and faculty members shared reflections on the uprising’s significance.
Delivering his speech as the Chief Guest, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said, “The courage, solidarity, and sense of responsibility shown by people during the July Revolution proved that when the national interest takes precedence, it is possible to rise above all divisions and stand united. This collective spirit is a valuable legacy in Bangladesh’s political history, one that will inspire future generations to uphold patriotism, democratic values, and national unity.”
Speaking as a Special Guest, Benazir Ahmed said, “The same thread binds the 1971 Liberation War and the July 2024 Mass Uprising. North South University will continue to play a responsible role in preserving this proud chapter of our nation’s history, promoting research, and passing on its true spirit to future generations.”
Another Special Guest, Ms. Samantha Sharmeen, said, “The courage and resilience displayed during the July Mass Uprising showed that shared values have the power to unite people. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the sacrifices and voices of the martyrs are never forgotten.”
Professor Salimullah Khan said, “The July Mass Uprising marked a historic moment in which the nation took a moral stand. ‘The 36th of July’ is not merely a symbol; it represents the people’s creative resistance and struggle. Any attempt to deny the July Mass Uprising or distort its history must be collectively resisted.”
Lt Col (Retd.) Kamal Akbar said, “The July Shaheed Smriti Foundation is working to provide financial and medical assistance, rehabilitation, and long-term support to the injured and the families of the martyrs, while also preserving the memory of the July Mass Uprising. The government and the Foundation will continue their initiatives for the welfare of gazetted July fighters, including educational support.”
Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University, said, “At a time of national crisis, the country’s young people demonstrated remarkable courage, responsibility, and patriotism. During the July Uprising in particular, students from North South University and other educational institutions stood united against injustice. Their contribution will be remembered with respect by the nation for years to come.”
Professor Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor of North South University, expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, participants, organizers, and students for making the program a meaningful tribute to the martyrs and the enduring spirit of the July Uprising. He reaffirmed NSU’s commitment to promoting historical awareness, democratic values, and responsible citizenship through academic and public engagement initiatives.
The commemorative program concluded with a cultural performance by NSU Cine & Drama Club (NSUCDC) and NSU Sangskritik Sangathan (NSUSS).
