The conference titled, “53 Years of Victory”, organized by the Education Research and Development Forum of Bangladesh (ERDFB), a research-focused organization led by university educators, took place at the Reporters Unity Milonayoton in Segunbagicha, Dhaka, on Friday, December 22, 2023, at 10:00 AM.
During the event, participants engaged in discussions about the progress across various sectors in Bangladesh delved into the historical aspects of the nation’s victory, and extended an invitation to all to actively participate in the upcoming elections. Professor Dr. Mohammad Badruzzaman Bhuiyan, the Honorable Pro-Vice Chancellor (Acting) of Barisal University, presided over the entire conference. Dr. Mesbah Kamal, a Professor in the Department of History at the University of Dhaka, led the presentation of the main article.
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Dr. M. Sazzad Hossain, the President of ERDFB and a distinguished figure in the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh (UGC), directed the proceedings. Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, the Vice-Provost, and Senior Vice-President of ERDFB played an active role in contributing to the discussions.
The conference featured Dr. A. K. Azad Chowdhury, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, as the keynote speaker. Notable guests included Dr. Md. Sharfuddin Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor of Bangabandhu Medical University; Dr. Md. Shahidur Rashid Bhuiyan, Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University; Dr. M. Wahiduzzaman, former Vice-Chancellor of Noakhali Science and Technology University, and Dr. S. M. Anwara Begum, a former member of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission.
Key Takeaways from the Press Conference
Dr. Abdul Jabbar Khan, the Senior Vice-President of ERDFB, emphasized the progress in Bangladesh throughout the years, citing achievements like the construction of the Padma Bridge and the execution of the Delta plan. He conveyed the public’s expectations for specific measures from the forthcoming government, encompassing an elevation in the Tax GDP within the monetary and capital markets, a reinforced emphasis on the significance of education, reduced prices of everyday commodities, and the appropriate acknowledgment of contributions made by remitters to our nation.
He further emphasized, “In a recent conference, Russian Ambassador Alexander Mantytskiy mentioned that Bangladesh is on the verge of experiencing an ‘Arab Spring’ after the election, and we must not overlook this. Ambassadors are consistently interfering in our affairs, violating Vienna Convention’s Article 411, and strict laws will be implemented if such violations persist.”
Dr. Mesbah Kamal, a Professor of History at the University of Dhaka, discussed how Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman addressed five fundamental needs—food, clothing, education, health, and shelter—for the people of Bangladesh, and this legacy persists to this day.
In the realm of food, he delved into the reformation of land rights, the initiation of the Green Revolution, and the consistent increase in food supply over the years. Also, a notable achievement is the direct communication between farmers and agricultural scientists, fostering greater connectivity among the people.
Regarding clothing, he highlighted Bangladesh’s achievements in the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector.
“In terms of education, significant progress has been made in primary education, with an almost 100% enrollment rate—a feat unmatched by any other country in South Asia. The introduction of pre-primary education and the initiation of Mother Tongue Based-Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE) in 43 languages, with five languages already implemented. However, there’s a need to increase the budget for education”
In the context of health, Dr. Kamal underscored the establishment of community clinics nationwide and the achievement of the lowest maternal and child death rates in South Asia. Additionally, specialized units for cancer have been established in all hospitals, contributing to an overall improvement in healthcare.
Dr. S. M. Anwara Begum, Freedom fighter and former member of the Bangladesh Public Service Commission expressed, “Few people acknowledge Indira Gandhi’s role in the victory of Bangladesh and her commitment to releasing Bangabandhu to the Soviet Union. I express my gratitude and sincere respect for her affection towards Bangabandhu and Bangladesh.”
She also extended a warm welcome to the citizens of Bangladesh, urging them to actively participate in voting and adhere to proper rules and regulations at the voting centers. She emphasized their role as the future of a Smart Bangladesh in 2041.
Dr. M. Wahiduzzaman, the former Vice-Chancellor of Noakhali Science and Technology University, expressed his deep concern regarding the tragic events of the 1971 massacre. Subsequently, he discussed advancements in education, agriculture, and various other sectors. Additionally, he extended a warm invitation to everyone to actively engage in the upcoming general election and emphasized the importance of respecting voter rights.
Dr. Md. Shahidur Rashid Bhuiyan, Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, expressed gratitude to garment workers, SME holders, farmers, and remitters for their unwavering contribution. He discussed the advancements facilitated by Sheikh Hasina over the past decade and a half, emphasizing the importance of everyone exercising their right to vote to uphold the democratic process.
Dr. A. K. Azad Chowdhury, the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, discussed the agricultural revolution and advancements in the pharmaceutical industry. He also highlighted our significant progress in pharmaceutical exports, reaching 150 countries, while our pharmaceutical imports remain at a minimal 3%.
Dr. M. Sazzad Hossain, member of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh (UGC), concluded the conference by commending the significant contributions of the youth to the independence and victory of Bangladesh. He emphasized that the youth represent the future of the nation and play a crucial role in advocating for research, career development, climate awareness, and addressing various issues and violations in Bangladesh and they will lead towards Smart Bangladesh. He extended a warm welcome to the youth, encouraging their active participation in fair elections, urging them to vote, and expressing hope for their support in the ‘Go Vote’ campaign.
