Rajshahi University Honours Two Distinguished Academics

Rajshahi University’s Department of Islamic History and Culture has held a memorial discussion and prayer gathering in honour of two late academics, Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla and Professor ABM Shahjahan, recognising their lasting contributions to teaching, research and academic leadership.

The event took place at 10:00 am on Sunday (19 July) at the Professor Emeritus ABM Hossain Gallery in the Shahidullah Arts Building. It was organised by the Islamic History Association and brought together faculty members, students and colleagues to pay tribute to the lives and professional legacies of the two respected scholars.

The programme 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, while the event was conducted by Professor Dr Mahfuzur Rahman Akhand, Treasurer of the Islamic History Association.

Among those who addressed the gathering were 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 Zahar-i-Tasnim, Professor Dr Md Arifur Rahman and departmental student Roni Babu.

Speakers reflected on the remarkable careers of the two late professors, describing them as educators who devoted themselves to scholarship, institutional development and the advancement of higher education. They noted that Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla discharged her responsibilities in teaching, research and university administration with dedication throughout her career. Although she was known for maintaining high academic standards and discipline, she was equally remembered for her warmth, compassion and motherly attitude towards students. According to colleagues, she consistently encouraged learners, supported them beyond the classroom and earned widespread respect for her integrity and commitment to education.

Professor ABM Shahjahan was remembered as an exceptionally gifted academic with an enduring passion for intellectual pursuit. Speakers said he was deeply committed to knowledge, research and the academic growth of both colleagues and students. After beginning his teaching career at the University of Chittagong, he later joined Rajshahi University, where he spent many years educating students and contributing to the department’s academic development. His willingness to assist others and his collegial approach made him a highly respected figure within the university community.

During the discussion, participants observed that universities are shaped not only by their academic programmes but also by the dedication and values of their teachers. They said the lives and work of Professor Shamsun Nahar Molla and Professor ABM Shahjahan would continue to inspire future generations of academics and students through their commitment to education, scholarship and public service.

The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Hafez Khalid Saifullah. Following the memorial discussion, Professor Dr Mahfuzur Rahman Akhand led a special prayer seeking divine mercy and forgiveness for the departed souls of the two professors, as well as for all deceased members of the university community. The gathering concluded with participants offering their respects and remembering the enduring academic and human legacy left behind by the two distinguished educators.