Rajshahi University Honours Two Late Distinguished Academics

Rajshahi University has paid tribute to two of its late distinguished academics, Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla and Professor ABM Shahjahan, through a memorial discussion and prayer gathering organised by the Islamic History Society. The event brought together faculty members, students and colleagues to remember the scholars’ lasting contributions to teaching, research and academic life.

The programme was held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday (19 July) at the Professor Emeritus ABM Hossain Gallery in the Shahidullah Arts Building. It was organised by the Islamic History Society of the Department of Islamic History and Culture, reflecting the department’s tradition of recognising the achievements and service of its former teachers.

The memorial meeting was chaired by Professor Dr M. Munjurul Haque, Chairman of the Department of Islamic History and Culture. Professor Dr Mohammad Belal Hossain, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, attended as the chief guest. The programme was conducted by Professor Dr Mahfuzur Rahman Akhand, Treasurer of the Islamic History Society.

Several academics and a student representative addressed the gathering, sharing personal memories and reflecting on the professional accomplishments of the two late professors. Speakers included Professor Dr Kazi Md Mostafizur Rahman, Professor Dr M. Azizul Haque, Professor Dr Imtiaz Ahmed, Professor Dr Dilshad Ara Bulu, Professor Dr Md Harun Or Rashid, Professor Dr Mu. Khalilur Rahman, Professor Dr Md Jahangir Alam, Professor Dr Shahnaz Sultana Sonia, Professor Dr Yahar-e-Tasnim, Professor Dr Md Arifur Rahman and departmental student Rony Babu.

During the discussion, speakers described Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla as a dedicated academic who served the university with commitment throughout her career. They said she carried out her responsibilities in teaching, research and academic administration with sincerity and professionalism. While she was known for maintaining discipline and high academic standards, colleagues and former students remembered her as a compassionate, caring and motherly figure who remained approachable and supportive throughout her years of service.

Tributes to Professor ABM Shahjahan highlighted his intellectual ability, commitment to scholarship and willingness to assist both colleagues and students. Speakers noted that he began his academic career at the University of Chittagong before later joining Rajshahi University, where he spent many years teaching and mentoring students. They recalled him as a respected educator whose dedication to knowledge and academic excellence left a lasting impression on the department.

Those attending the event observed that the contributions of committed university teachers extend well beyond the classroom. Through their teaching, research and mentorship, academics help shape future generations while strengthening the intellectual environment of their institutions. The speakers said the professional integrity, academic values and personal qualities demonstrated by both professors would continue to inspire students and fellow educators for years to come.

The programme opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Hafez Khalid Saifullah. At the conclusion of the memorial discussion, Professor Dr Mahfuzur Rahman Akhand led a special prayer seeking forgiveness and eternal peace for the souls of Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla, Professor ABM Shahjahan and all deceased members of the university community. Participants joined the prayer in remembrance of the two respected academics and in recognition of their enduring legacy within Rajshahi University.