Moyeen Khan hails students' 'unprecedented' role in July Uprising, urges focus on studies

Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan on Saturday called on students to actively participate in debate, cultural and other creative activities alongside their academic pursuits.

He said such combined development is essential to producing capable future citizens and leaders.

Speaking as chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the "DUDS-ActionAid National Debate Festival 2026" at the TSC Auditorium of Dhaka University, the minister said the student community's extraordinary role in the country's socio-economic and political development during the 2024 mass uprising was witnessed by the entire nation.

He said today's students are the principal force who will lead the country in the future, and must therefore prepare themselves adequately from now on.

He also urged students to remain conscious and vigilant at all times to uphold the dignity of Dhaka University, describing it as the country's premier seat of learning with a glorious history.

The festival, jointly organized by the Dhaka University Debating Society (DUDS) and ActionAid, features 24 teams from various universities across the country. The minister formally inaugurated the competition at the event.

Dr Moyeen said students represent the country's future leadership and will take up responsibilities in various sectors within the next 10, 15 or 20 years. He stressed that while students may engage in politics, social work or economic activities, they must never neglect their studies.

He noted that debate plays a significant role in developing logical thinking, expression and leadership qualities among students, but added that participation in debate competitions alone is not enough — students must also engage in various creative and co-curricular activities to build overall knowledge and skills.

Recalling his own student life, the minister said that nearly 60 years ago, as a student of Dhaka University's Fazlul Huq Hall, he took part in debate competitions and represented his hall, winning the championship for three consecutive years.

He said one of the special strengths of the student community is its capacity to speak out against injustice and inconsistencies, noting that students have played a crucial role in bringing about significant change at various points in Bangladesh's history.

He called on the new generation to channel this strength and sense of responsibility in a positive direction.

Dr Moyeen further said that quality education and universities form one of the key foundations of a nation's progress, and that a country can only advance in the long run on the strength of knowledge, research and education. He said teachers and students must each fulfil their respective responsibilities to preserve Dhaka University's proud legacy.

Thanking the organizers of the Dhaka University Debating Society, he said the society should not confine itself to organizing debates alone, but should develop into an effective platform for advancing the university's educational and co-curricular activities.

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