Rajshahi: Commemorating the 47th anniversary of martyrdom of Dr Shamsuzzoha, the Rajshahi University (RU) authorities will observe 'Zoha Day' as Teachers' Day on the campus in a befitting manner on Thursday.

On the day in 1969, Dr Shamsuzzoha was shot dead by Pakistani military junta in front of the RU main gate as he rushed there to protect the students marching towards the town violating Section 144.

Zoha was the RU proctor and a teacher of the chemistry department. His death sparked violent protests across the then East Pakistan, leading to the fall of autocratic Ayub regime.

Marking the day, the RU authorities chalked out elaborate programmes like hoisting of black flag atop all dormitories, administrative and academic buildings, placing of wreaths at Zoha's grave and offering special prayers and holding doa mahfil at the central mosque.

RU Chemistry department in association with the university authority will organise Zoha memorial lecture at Senate Building at 10:00am. Information Minister Hasanul Haque Inu, MP, is expected to attend the lecture as speaker.

Progressive Teachers' Society (PTS), teachers' and officers' associations, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), Rajshahi University Journalists' Association (Ruja) and different sociocultural organisations will hold discussions and offer special prayers in observance of the day.

Shaheed Shamsuzzoha Hall will also arrange a discussion. RU chemistry department will bring out a silent procession on the campus to mark the day.

Shaheed Smrity Sangrahashala will remain open for the visitors from 7:00am to 5:00pm in observance of the day.