Begum Rokeya University Journalists' Association Marks 12 Years, Names Sazzadur Rahman Best Investigative Reporter

The Begum Rokeya University Journalists' Association (Berobisas) in Rangpur has celebrated its 12th anniversary with a colourful programme. A joyous rally, a discussion meeting and a cake-cutting ceremony were held on the university campus on Monday (October 26).

After the rally at 11am, the discussion at the cafeteria was chaired by Berobisas president Abu Sayeed. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Showkat Ali attended as chief guest, Registrar (additional charge) Professor Dr Md Ferdous Rahman as special guest, and Dhaka Post acting editor Md Kamrul Islam as chief discussant.

At the same event, awards were presented in three categories under the association's half-yearly evaluation for 2026. RisingBD's university correspondent Sazzadur Rahman was named best investigative reporter, Masfiqul Hasan of Ediner best feature writer, and Ripon Shahriar of Dhaka Post best video reporter. The vice-chancellor and the chief discussant handed the crests to the winners.

Sazzadur Rahman said: “There is a joy in chasing news, if success follows once the story is published. I will continue this work. I am grateful to the journalists' association for evaluating such work. I will always try to report honestly and objectively.”

In his speech, chief discussant Kamrul Islam advised journalists not to step into the role of politicians. He said journalists are often seen on talk shows playing a more political role than politicians themselves, which may stem from seeking advantage.

He added: “From a place of honesty, through our writing we want to leave a mark so that even 10 years from now, my writing brings change not only to my society, but to my country and this campus.”

Chief guest Vice-Chancellor Showkat Ali said: “A university is a centre of knowledge, reason and free thought. The role of journalism here should be constructive criticism, fact-based analysis and spreading positive messages.” He stressed verifying information before publishing any news.

The vice-chancellor said the university's reputation is often harmed when information is spread without proper verification, so accuracy must be confirmed before publication in the interest of responsible journalism. He called on all stakeholders to work together to make the university one of the country's finest institutions.

In his closing remarks, Berobisas president Abu Sayeed said: “Berobisas will move forward in the days ahead with a pledge of truth, courage and objective journalism.” He thanked everyone who has carried the organisation forward.

Also speaking were Md Tabiur Rahman Pradhan, head of the Mass Communication and Journalism department, and Berobisas general secretary Md Kamruzzaman Pulok. Deans of faculties, department heads, hall provosts, teachers, officials, students and journalists from various media outlets attended the programme.

The Begum Rokeya University Journalists' Association began its journey on October 26, 2014, at the initiative of a few students. Since its founding, it has reported on the university's important events, campus problems and prospects, and issues concerning students. The awards are given every year to inspire the best journalists.