Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Digital University, Bangladesh (BDU), observed Martyred Intellectuals Day on Saturday with deep respect and solemnity. The occasion was marked by tributes to the nation's finest intellectuals, who were brutally murdered on the eve of Bangladesh’s victory in the Liberation War of 1971.

In the morning, the Vice-Chancellor (VC) of BDU, Professor Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, led the commemoration by laying a wreath at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial in Mirpur, Dhaka. He was accompanied by the Honorable Treasurer, Professor Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain; Registrar Muhammad Ataur Rahman Khan; departmental chairpersons; proctors; faculty members; officers; and staff of the university, a press release said.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Professor Abu Yusuf said, "14 December is a deeply painful chapter in the history of Bengalis. On this day, we remember with gratitude and reverence the intellectuals who were martyred at the cusp of our victory in 1971. I pray for the eternal peace of their souls."

The VC further highlighted the brutality of the killings. "At the dawn of Bangladesh’s final victory, collaborators of the occupying forces executed a heinous plan to cripple the intellectual backbone of the nation. Writers, philosophers, scientists, lawyers, doctors, engineers, architects, sculptors, and cultural luminaries who were instrumental in shaping the nation’s future were systematically targeted and killed," he stated.

The event underscored the university's commitment to honouring the sacrifices of these intellectuals and fostering a deeper understanding of their contributions among students and the broader community.