A two-day ‘International Workshop on Multifaith Dialogue (IWOMD 2025)’ begins 10 February, Monday, at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban Auditorium of Dhaka University, aiming to promote an inclusive society and foster religious harmony.
The workshop was inaugurated by Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, as the chief guest. who expressed optimism about the workshop’s role in fostering an inclusive society in Bangladesh.
Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan in his speech emphasized the importance of peace and harmony during the ongoing transitional period in the country.
He stated, “We must work together, regardless of religion or caste, to strengthen mutual unity and eliminate social divisions.”
He also referred to the July Uprising as a key moment in the nation’s history, underscoring the need to address inequalities for a better society.
Special guests included Dr. Bob Roberts Jr., Co-Founder of the Multifaith Neighbors Network (MFNN), Imam Mohammad Majid, Chairman of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), Secretariat Nadine Mayenza, President of IRF; James Chen,
Senior Vice President of the Institute of Global Engagement; and Syed Muktadir, Senior Advisor of Global Muslim Affairs.
Prominent religious leaders spoke at the event, including eminent nuclear scientist Professor Dr. M. Shamsher Ali, representing Muslims; Dr. Sukomal Barua, supernumerary professor at the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, for Buddhists; Shreemot Swami Ambeshananda, member of the Ramakrishna Mission Management Committee for Hindus; and Bijoy N. D. Cruz, the Archbishop of Bangladesh Catholic Church, for Christians.
The inaugural session was presided over by Professor Dr. Mohammad Elias, convener of the workshop organizing committee and director of the Center for Inter-religious and Intercultural Dialogue., while the welcome address was delivered by Professor Dr. M. Abdul Aziz, Director General of BIIT and Co-Convenor of the event. Professor Dr. Md. Abu Sayem, Chairman of Dhaka University’s Department of World Religions and Culture; Dhaka University teachers, researchers, students, and representatives from various religious groups and organizations are taking part in the event.
Speakers highlighted Bangladesh’s legacy of religious harmony, where people of all faiths live peacefully and without discrimination. They emphasized that a true believer never disrespects another faith and that a meaningful dialogue is key to building lasting multifaith unity. They stressed that religious leaders must work together to establish a stable and harmonious society, ensuring mutual respect and compassion among different communities.
This workshop aims to bring together religious leaders and influential figures from various communities to promote trust, collaboration, and strategic initiatives for peace and interfaith harmony. It seeks to engage local communities in projects that reinforce Bangladesh’s rich tradition of religious coexistence, contributing to a peaceful and prosperous future.
The conference is jointly organized by the US-based Multi-faith Neighbors Network (MFNN), Dhaka University’s Center for
Inter-Religious and Inter-Cultural Dialogue (CIID), the Bangladesh Institute of Islamic Thought (BIIT), and the American Institute of
Integrated Thought (AIIT).
The closing ceremony will be held on 11 February from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with Dr. A.F.M. Khalid Hossain, Honourable Adviser to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, as the Chief Guest. Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) of Dhaka University, will attend as a Special Guest.
News by: Dr. Ibrahim Khalil Anwar