‘DU always paved the way’

"Like the Renaissance did for Europe, Dhaka University has generated thirst for knowledge among us," renowned author, professor, and intellectual Syed Manzoorul Islam said at a virtual discussion yesterday.

The discussion -- fourth episode of the Bidyapeeth Baithaki -- was arranged by Gyantapas Abdur Razzaq Foundation.

About DU's 100 years of founding, he said, "We've come quite far in the 50 years of Independence. In this time, DU has acted as a guide. It has led all the mass movements before and after the Independence. The university has made significant contributions to improving women's education in the country."

"To this day, the university is attended mostly by rural youth, which is no less an achievement. In becoming interested in university education, the rural middle class also becomes involved in politics, leading to the country's politics becoming more people-centric. As a result, the institution has seen a synthesis of political and cultural involvement." "These days, student leaders even control their teachers, although only around 10 percent of teachers are involved in politics, while the rest are devoted to carrying out their jobs."

On other contemporary issues, Prof Manzoorul said, "In the web of our ultra bureaucratic institutions, accountability often goes missing. This is in stark contrast to many countries where bureaucrats have to be responsible of their actions everyday. Our problems are mostly systemic. Even though individuals may harbour the right intentions, they find it hard to carry it out due to the rigidity of the systems, which is why we must change them."

At the session, Prof Manzoorul was introduced by Gyantapas Abdur Razzaq Foundation director general Ahrar Ahmad, also Professor Emeritus of Black Hills State University in the US. The event was hosted by Iftekharul Islam.