Deputy Speaker highlights history's role in nation-building and leadership.
Deputy Speaker of Barrister Kayser Kamal has said the study of history is the foundation of knowing a nation’s identity and future as it enables people to understand the past and shape the future.
He made the remark while addressing the fresher’s reception of the 20th semester batch of the Department of History of Dhaka University at Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) here today, said a press release of parliament secretariat.
Recalling his own days as a student of the department during the 1989-90 academic session, the Deputy Speaker said returning to the TSC auditorium brought back cherished memories of university life.
“I was once a student of the Department of History, just like you. Student life is unforgettable. Being here today makes me feel as though I have returned to those days. Many of my respected teachers are present here, and their presence has deeply moved me,” he said.
Kayser Kamal said the Department of History had given him much more than academic knowledge.
“One day, I also walked through the corridors of this department carrying dreams, expectations and some uncertainties. This department taught me not only history from textbooks but also how to understand people, analyze society and work with a sense of responsibility towards the country and the nation. It laid the foundation of my thinking, values and leadership,” he added.
Addressing the new students, he said they had enrolled in a discipline that teaches far more than memorising historical events.
“History teaches us why events occurred, their social, political and economic contexts, and what lessons can be drawn for the future. History is the mirror of a nation’s identity. A nation that does not know its history cannot confidently build its future,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker said the study of history develops logical thinking, analytical ability, research aptitude and the pursuit of truth—qualities that are essential not only for historians but also for careers in public administration, governance, the judiciary, diplomacy, journalism, education, research, development and corporate leadership.
Sharing his personal experience, he said the lessons learned from the Department of History had given him the courage and inspiration to overcome various challenges in life.
“I deeply acknowledge the contribution of this department to whatever position I have reached today,” he added.
He expressed hope that future teachers, researchers, civil servants, diplomats, judges, journalists, writers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and national leaders would emerge from among the students.
He urged them to consider university life not merely as a means of earning a degree but as an opportunity to become competent, humane and responsible citizens.
Highlighting the historic role of the University of Dhaka, the Deputy Speaker said the institution, popularly known as the Oxford of the East, has been at the forefront of Bangladesh’s democratic movements, secular values and national liberation struggle.
He said the university had played a pioneering role in the 1952 Language Movement, 1971 Liberation War, 1990 mass uprising and every significant movement for democracy and people’s rights.
“Whenever the country had faced crises or national challenges, the University of Dhaka had shown the nation the right direction. It always inspired the nation to move forward like a beacon of hope. Therefore, I firmly believe that Dhaka University is the light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Advising the freshers, Kayser Kamal urged them to attend classes regularly, complete their studies on time and make discipline and punctuality integral parts of their lives.
He said talent alone is not enough, as its proper development depends on perseverance, honesty, discipline and hard work.
He also encouraged students to practice tolerance, mutual respect, free thinking and human values throughout their university life.
Expressing optimism, the Deputy Speaker said the new students would uphold the glorious tradition of the Department of History and enhance Bangladesh’s image at home and abroad through their integrity, competence and excellence.
Teachers of the Department of History, current and former students, invited guests, representatives from different departments of the university; officials concerned of the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat were present.
