A special seminar titled “Transcription of Manuscripts into Bengali Publications and Physical & Digital Preservation of Manuscript Collections” was held on Monday (30 June 2025) at Room 201, Jasimuddin Bhaban, Bangla Academy. The event commenced at 12:00 PM and brought together eminent scholars, cultural personalities, and officials committed to the preservation of Bengali heritage.
The seminar was presided over by Professor Mohammad Azam, Director General of Bangla Academy. The event was graced by Mr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Secretary of the Implementation Monitoring and Evaluation Division (IMED), Planning Ministry, as the Chief Guest.
The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Mohammad Harun Rashid, Project Director, and the keynote presentation was given by renowned researcher, academician, and manuscript expert Professor Dr. Muhammad Shahjahan Mian.
Distinguished guests and discussants included: Poet Abdul Hye Shikder, Editor, Daily Jugantor, Dr. Munira Sultana, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Dr. Md. Selim Reza, Secretary, Bangla Academy, Mr. Al Mamun, international manuscript expert and sports organizer
Additional participants in the panel discussion included noted academics such as Professor Dr. Nurul Amin Bepari, Professor Dr. Azharul Islam Sheikh (Chanchal), Professor Dr. Moyna Talukder, Dr. Shishir Mallick, along with other researchers from leading universities across the country.
In their remarks, speakers emphasized that ancient Bengali manuscripts are invaluable assets of history, heritage, and scholarly knowledge. They highlighted the urgent need to preserve and interpret these texts through modern transcription, editing, and digital archiving techniques. The initiative, they noted, would not only deepen academic research but also enrich the cultural understanding of future generations.
The seminar concluded with an open discussion session, where participants shared insights and recommendations. Many called for expanded initiatives and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of these cultural treasures.
