Sylhet: Noted science fiction writer and educationist Prof Muhammed Zafar Iqbal on Monday demanded that February 18 be announced as the ‘National Teachers’ Day’ to pay homage to the country’s first martyred intellectual, Dr Mohammad Shamsuzzoha.

He made the demand while addressing a commemorative meeting on Dr Zoha at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology here, marking his 50th death anniversary, reports the UNB.

Mentioning that Dr Zoha was an ideal teacher, Prof Zafar said, ‘He embraced the martyrdom while protecting his students. So, no day other than February 18 is suitable to be the National Teachers’ Day. If any day is announced as the National Teachers’ Day, this day should be chosen for it.’

Earlier, the writer paid respects to the martyred intellectual placing a wreath at his portrait installed in front of the Central Public Library.

Dr Zoha, a teacher of Rajshahi University, was shot to death by Pakistani military junta in front of the university’s main gate on February 18, 1969.