Rajshahi University Introduces Merit Award as Minister Pledges Funds

Rajshahi University has officially introduced a prestigious merit award scheme to recognise outstanding academic achievements, backed by a financial pledge from the government. The Minister for Land, Mizanur Rahman Minu, has announced a grant of 10 lakh Taka to be delivered within a week to support this new incentive programme. In addition, the minister gave a firm assurance that the historic “Bara Kuthi” building, widely considered the birthplace of the university, will soon be formally handed back to the institution.

The announcements were made during a discussion meeting held at 12:00 BST on Monday, 6 July, to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of Rajshahi University. Speaking as the chief guest, Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu highlighted the storied history of the institution and its role in national development.

“The contributions of Rajshahi University to anti-fascist movements and various historic struggles are undeniable,” Minu stated during his address. He noted that alumni from the university are currently serving with distinction across the globe. The minister paid tribute to the late Madar Bux, whose pioneering efforts were instrumental in founding the university, whilst expressing gratitude to all individuals who contributed to its establishment.

Looking ahead to the institution’s upcoming milestone, the minister addressed the developmental demands raised by the university administration. “The Vice-Chancellor has presented several key demands to me. In two years, the university will celebrate its 75th anniversary. I will personally invite Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to grace the platinum jubilee celebrations, and I am confident he will attend,” Minu added.

The repatriation of Bara Kuthi emerged as a central theme of the event. Responding to an earlier appeal by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Faridul Islam, the minister confirmed that administrative steps would be prioritised to expedite the transfer of the property from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs back to the university.

The historical context of Bara Kuthi is deeply intertwined with the university’s origins. When Rajshahi University was established in 1953, the then Government of Pakistan allocated the historic structure to the institution. It initially served as both the official residence and the administrative office of the inaugural Vice-Chancellor. Over the decades, as the campus expanded elsewhere, the building was repurposed as a Teachers’ Club and later as the office for the employees’ union.

Ownership eventually shifted to the Department of Archaeology, placing it under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. For years, faculty members and students have campaigned to reclaim the ancient heritage site, viewing it as a vital piece of their institutional identity.

The anniversary event was attended by a distinguished gathering of academics, administrators, and public representatives. Notable attendees included former Vice-Chancellor Professor Faisul Islam Faruqi, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr Mohammad Abdul Alim, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr Mamunur Rashid. The Member of Parliament for Rajshahi-3, Mohammad Shafiqul Haq Milan, and the Administrator of Rajshahi City Corporation, Mahfuzur Rahman Riton, were also present alongside university officials, staff, and students.