In an address on September 8, Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus delivered a poignant and urgent message about the nation’s current crisis. Speaking to the students and youth leaders at his Tejgaon office in the capital, Dr Yunus emphasised the critical juncture Bangladesh faces and the need for unwavering commitment to the ongoing struggle for justice and equity. His emotional reaction with tears as he recounted the sacrifices of the injured and deceased students stressed the significance of the situation and the high stakes involved.
Dr Yunus called upon the students to remain dedicated until the vision of a just and equitable Bangladesh is fully realised. He warned that deviating from this path may endanger the nation’s future, highlighting that the opportunity to transform Bangladesh into a respected and prosperous state must not be squandered. This moment is unprecedented and may never come again, he cautioned.
During the meeting with students and youths, the Chief Adviser described the severe injuries he witnessed among the students, including amputations and defacement, highlighting the human cost of the ongoing struggle. His emotional response reflected his deep empathy and connection with the victims.
The students called for an end to the use of religion
as a political instrument. They also advocated for
educational reforms, including enhanced support for
graduate students and initiatives to ensure their return
to Bangladesh after studying abroad. We appreciate the calls of
students.
The students presented several recommendations to the interim government. They called for an end to the use of religion as a political instrument, a halt to mob justice and measures to address both financial and intellectual capital flight. They also advocated for educational reforms, including enhanced support for graduate students and initiatives to ensure their return to Bangladesh after studying abroad. We appreciate the calls and recommendations of the students which ultimate will help the interim government to build peaceful Bangladesh. The students stressed that mob justice undermines the rule of law and threatens societal cohesion. They urged immediate steps to address the rising prices of essential commodities, suggesting increased agricultural production, improved marketing systems and subsidies for farmers as possible solutions.
Dr Yunus also highlighted the need for political reforms, particularly the reformation of the Election Commission (EC), to ensure fair and transparent elections. Such reforms are crucial for restoring democratic processes and securing the country’s political stability.
The meeting underscored the magnitude of the opportunity before Bangladesh. Dr Yunus’s emotional plea and the students’ recommendations reflect a shared determination to tackle the nation’s social, economic and political challenges effectively. The current moment demands a united and dedicated effort to honour the sacrifices and achieve the vision of a just and prosperous Bangladesh.
Bangladesh stands at a defining moment. The insights provided by Dr Yunus and the students reveal both the seriousness of the situation and the potential for positive change. As the nation navigates this pivotal period, it is essential to remain committed to the cause, ensuring that past sacrifices are honored and the dream of a better future is realised. Students should follow Dr Yunus’s directions, keeping faith in the interim government as the government continuously tries to advance the country and its people.