North South University (NSU) has organised a series of programmes, including a discussion session, special prayers, an art competition and cultural performances, to commemorate the martyrs of the July Uprising 2024 and inspire younger generations with the values of democracy, justice and human rights for which they sacrificed their lives, a press release said.

Through these diverse initiatives, the university not only paid tribute to the victims of the uprising but also sought to foster historical awareness, creativity and civic responsibility among its students.

As part of the commemorative events, a special prayer and doa was held on August 5 following Zuhr prayers at the NSU Boys’ Lounge, seeking eternal peace for the souls of those who lost their lives during the July Uprising. The programme was attended by faculty members, students, officers and staff of the university. The prayers were led by Azmir Hossain, Imam of the NSU Boys’ Lounge. In addition to praying for the departed, participants offered prayers for the country’s peace, progress and prosperity, underscoring that remembering history is not merely ceremonial but also a reflection of collective responsibility.

The centrepiece of the commemorative programme was the “July Uprising 2024 Remembrance Ceremony,” held on July 27 at the NSU Auditorium. Jointly organised by North South University and the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, the event brought together policymakers, academics, public representatives, faculty members, students and members of the wider community to honour the martyrs and reflect on the significance of the movement.

The programme began with a one-minute silence in memory of the fallen, followed by special prayers, the national anthem and the July theme song, creating a solemn and reflective atmosphere. A documentary on the July Uprising was screened, while NSU faculty members and students who actively participated in the movement shared their personal experiences and reflected on its significance and on the responsibilities of future generations.

The chief guest was Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Political Adviser to the Chief Adviser and Adviser to the Ministry of Industries. Special guests included Benazir Ahmed, Member and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of North South University, and Samantha Sharmin, Senior Joint Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP). Professor Salimullah Khan, Director of the Liberation War Research Center at NSU, presented the keynote paper. Lieutenant Colonel (Retd.) Kamal Akbar, Chief Executive Officer of the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, delivered a special address and presented a documentary on the uprising. The event was presided over by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University. Professor Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the university, moderated the session.

One of the highlights of the event was the cultural programme. The North South University Sangskritik Sangathan (NSUSS) performed patriotic songs and recited poetry. At the same time, the North South University Cine and Drama Club (NSUCDC) staged a special theatrical performance based on the July Uprising. Through music, poetry and drama, the performances vividly portrayed patriotism, the sacrifices of July and the enduring values of humanity and resilience.

Continuing the commemorative initiatives, the North South University Art & Photography Club (NSUAPC) organised “Colours of Revolution 3.0” on August 3. The art competition invited students to express themes of courage, sacrifice, transformation and the pursuit of freedom through paintings. Renowned photojournalist and photographer Sunil Kumar served as the judge. At the same time, the organisers provided all necessary art materials to encourage participants to freely express their creativity and commemorate the spirit of the July Uprising through visual art.