Rajshahi College Prepares for Grand Sesquicentennial Celebrations and Reunion

Rajshahi College stands not merely as an academic institution, but as the enduring custodian and beacon of education, intellect, and culture for Bangladesh’s northern region, declared Land Minister Md Mizanur Rahman Minu. Emphasising its profound legacy, the minister described the historic college as a maternal figure to generations of scholars, urging former and current students to unite under a single banner to commemorate its 150th anniversary.

Speaking as the chief guest at a preparatory meeting held at Hare Road in Dhaka, Minu outlined the broader vision for the upcoming sesquicentennial jubilee and grand alumni reunion. He noted that the historic gathering would bridge the divide between different generations of learners, transforming the milestone into a shared celebration of collective identity, unity, and academic tradition. Across its century and a half of existence, the institution has nurtured countless luminaries, scholars, civil administrators, and public figures who have made significant contributions both at home and abroad.

The minister called upon alumni living across the globe to register in substantial numbers. To ensure widespread participation, he recommended establishing continent-based alumni coordinating committees to facilitate engagement and make the global gathering memorable. To leave an enduring physical legacy for future generations, authorities plan to erect a commemorative sculpture on the campus grounds to mark the landmark anniversary. Minu observed that the illustrious academic heritage of Rajshahi College is celebrated not only within Bangladesh but also across the wider international academic landscape.

Turning to institutional development, the minister highlighted several government-backed infrastructure initiatives aimed at modernising the historic campus while preserving its heritage. The proposed projects include constructing a modern multi-storey academic building, establishing a state-of-the-art auditorium, expanding residential halls for male and female students, and upgrading the historic sports grounds.

The preparatory session was presided over by the Principal of Rajshahi College, Professor Dr Md Ibrahim Ali. The gathering drew a distinguished roster of special guests, including the Member of Parliament for Rajshahi-3 Advocate Mohammad Shafiqul Haque Milon, Anti-Corruption Commission Secretary Md Saidur Rahman Khan, Rajshahi Development Authority Chairman Md Abul Kalam Azad Sweet, and former Home Secretary S.M. Zahurul Islam.

A diverse contingent of serving and retired senior civil officials, members of the Rajshahi College Alumni Association, current and former faculty members, student representatives, political dignitaries, and journalists attended the discussions. Together, they reviewed organisational strategies to deliver a comprehensive celebration befitting the institution’s pivotal role in the nation’s educational evolution.