Research, Literature Needed to Preserve July Spirit: JU VC

Jahangirnagar University (JU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Hasan on Wednesday called on academics, writers and cultural activists to preserve the history and spirit of the July Mass Uprising through research, literature and creative works so that its legacy reaches future generations.

"The history of a movement fought for a nation's freedom cannot survive on memories alone. It must be documented through research, books, poetry, fiction, theatre, music, films and documentaries," he said while attending the unveiling ceremony of ‘Jagaran’, a commemorative publication by the Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (JUCSU) marking the July Mass Uprising.

Referring to the story shared by the mother of martyr Anas, the vice chancellor said the young student's sacrifice represented the courage of an entire generation.

"We heard today about a letter Anas wrote to his mother before sacrificing his life. Though only a tenth-grade student, he chose to stand against injustice instead of remaining silent. Such stories must be preserved and shared with future generations," he said.

Prof Kamrul said the sacrifices of martyrs, including Anas, Alif, Siam, Shraban Gazi and Safwan, along with the experiences of their families, should be systematically documented to inspire future generations to uphold justice and resist oppression.

Describing ‘Jagaran’ as an important historical archive, he praised the initiative and said such publications would help future generations understand the sacrifices made during the movement.

He urged young people to uphold honesty, humanity and moral values, saying wealth and power should never take priority over humanity.

The vice chancellor said the spirit of the July Mass Uprising should be promoted through academic research and cultural activities rather than emotional remembrance alone.

"Just as the songs and literature of the 1971 Liberation War continue to inspire people, creative works on the July Mass Uprising should also encourage future generations to stand against injustice," he added.

He said similar initiatives should continue every year in a more comprehensive manner to preserve the history and ideals of the uprising.

At the programme, Prof Kamrul also announced enhanced security measures on the JU campus, saying entry would be restricted to individuals carrying valid identification cards and special security checks would be conducted before classes resume.

The event ended with the unveiling of ‘Jagaran’ in the presence of university officials, teachers, students, injured participants of the July movement, family members of martyrs and other invited guests.