Land Minister Announces Financial Grant and Historical Building Return for RU

The Land Minister, Mizanur Rahman Minu, has announced a financial grant of 10 lakh taka to establish the “Brilliant Student Recognition Award” at Rajshahi University. Delivering the announcement within a week, the minister also assured university authorities that “Bara Kuthi”, an ancient building considered the birthplace of the university, will soon be officially handed back to the institution.

The significant policy declarations were made on Monday, 6 July, during a discussion meeting celebrating the 73rd anniversary of the founding of Rajshahi University. Minister Minu attended the event as the chief guest, addressing a distinguished audience of academics, administrators, and students at 12:00 pm.

In his keynote address, the Land Minister emphasised the historical significance of the university in regional and national development. “The contribution of Rajshahi University to anti-fascist movements and struggles remains undeniable,” the minister remarked. He noted that alumni from the institution continue to provide exemplary services across the globe. He also paid solemn tribute to the late Madar Bux, the pioneering figure who contributed extensively to the establishment of the university, whilst expressing his deep gratitude to everyone involved in its early development.

Looking ahead, Minister Minu acknowledged several development demands placed before him by the university administration. Pointing out that the institution will celebrate its 75th anniversary in two years, he promised to request the presence of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the platinum jubilee celebrations.

The return of the heritage site, Bara Kuthi, emerged as a central theme of the event. Prior to the minister’s speech, the Vice-Chancellor of Rajshahi University, Professor Dr Md Faridul Islam, urged the government to expedite the return of the property. “Bara Kuthi, the birthplace of our university, is currently under the control of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. I urge the minister to ensure it is returned to us by whatever means necessary,” the Vice-Chancellor stated.

Responding to this appeal, Minister Minu offered his full assurance that administrative blockades would be cleared, anticipating an imminent transfer of ownership back to the university.

The historical context of Bara Kuthi remains deeply meaningful to the academic community. When Rajshahi University was established in 1953, the then Pakistani government handed over the ancient structure to the university authorities. Initially, it served as both the official residence and the administrative office of the inaugural Vice-Chancellor. Over the years, the building evolved, serving as a teachers’ club and an office for the employees’ union.

Control eventually shifted, and the site now falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Archaeology. Both faculty members and students have long campaigned to reclaim this historical monument, seeking co-operation from both the central government and the university administration to restore its legacy.

The anniversary discussion featured an array of notable attendees, including the former Vice-Chancellor, Professor Faisul Islam Farooqui, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Professor Dr Md Abdul Alim. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Education, Professor Dr Mamunur Rashid, Member of Parliament for the Rajshahi-3 constituency, Md Shofiqul Haque Milon, and Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator, Mahfuzur Rahman Riton, were also present, alongside various university officials, staff, students, and invited dignitaries.