The University of Dhaka organized a programme to celebrate the 227th Birth Anniversary of the great Russian poet and founder of modern Russian literature, Alexander Pushkin, as well as Russian Language Day. The event was held on Sunday morning, 14 June 2026, at Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban premises of the University.

Professor Dr. Abdus Salam, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of the University of Dhaka, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Ms. Alexandra A. Khelvnoy, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Bangladesh and Director of the Russian House in Dhaka, was present as the Special Guest.

In his speech, Professor Dr. Abdus Salam stated that Alexander Pushkin is globally recognized as the founder of modern Russian literature. He noted that Pushkin’s literary works, enriched with the values of human dignity, freedom, creativity, and cultural identity, continue to inspire readers around the world. He remarked that the celebration of Pushkin Day is not only a tribute to a great literary figure but also a celebration of the Russian language, one of the world’s richest languages. He said, language serves as a bridge among nations and cultures, fostering mutual understanding, friendship, and cooperation.

Professor Dr. Abdus Salam further stated that the University of Dhaka has always encouraged international academic and cultural exchanges. He emphasized that the University remains committed to developing a global outlook among students through literary activities, language education, and intellectual engagement. He also appreciated the contribution of the Russian House in strengthening educational and cultural relations between Bangladesh and Russia and congratulated students interested in studying Russian language and literature.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Alexandra A. Khelvnoy described Pushkin’s literary legacy as an invaluable part of the world’s cultural heritage. She noted that Russian Language Day is a global celebration of linguistic diversity, cultural heritage, and mutual understanding among peoples. According to her, the Russian language is not merely a means of communication; it is also a gateway to world-class science, literature, and advanced technology. Learning Russian creates new opportunities for Bangladeshi students in higher education, research, and professional development, she added.

Proficiency in the Russian language plays an important role in enabling students to pursue higher education at Russian universities through scholarships offered by the Russian Government she also said. She emphasized that learning foreign languages helps build bridges between cultures and nations and that students are the future architects of Bangladesh-Russia relations. She thanked the University authorities, faculty members, and students for promoting Russian language education at the University of Dhaka and expressed optimism that the longstanding cooperation between the Russian House and the University of Dhaka would continue to expand in the future.

Teachers, students, alumni, and representatives of the Russian House attended the programme.

14-6-26

Forrukh Mahmud

Deputy Director

Public Relations Office

University of Dhaka.