The Department of English, Varendra University, inaugurated the EDVU Lecture Series with its first seminar titled “Understanding Literature: Some Basic Issues and Ideas”, held at the auditorium of Varendra University on February 25, 2026.

The keynote lecture was delivered by Professor Dr. Maswood Akhter, Director, Institute of English and Other Languages, University of Rajshahi. He was formally introduced by Md. Shoab Shahriar, Lecturer, Department of English, who noted his contributions as a leading scholar of contemporary literary studies in Bangladesh.

Professor Dr. Maswood Akhter holds degrees from the University of Dhaka and earned his PhD from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), India. His research spans postcolonialism, diaspora studies, and cultural theory. A recipient of the UGC Award for Best Research Paper in Arts and Social Sciences, he has also served as a Fulbright Scholar‑in‑Residence at Regis College, USA. He has held major academic leadership roles at the University of Rajshahi and has published widely in regional and international journals. His ongoing work continues to shape literary scholarship in South Asia.

In his keynote address, Professor Dr. Maswood Akhter examined key principles and disciplinary approaches central to understanding literature, encouraging students to strengthen their analytical and interpretive skills.

The programme was supposed to be inaugurated by the Honourable Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Khademul Islam Molla of Varendra University but due to sudden official engagement, he could not attend the programme. So, the seminar opens with the commencing address from Professor Md. Shahidur Rahman, Head of the Department of English on behalf of the Honourable Vice Chancellor.

The event was graced by Md. Shamim Ahsan Parvez, Executive Director, Varendra University. Associate Professor Md. Abu Yusuf outlined the mission and long-term vision of the EDVU Lecture Series, emphasizing the department’s plan for a sustained platform offering structured, high-quality academic lectures.

The seminar featured a lively question‑and‑answer session, enabling participants to engage directly with the keynote speaker.

Certificates were awarded to all the participants.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by the Head of the Department of English, Professor Md. Shahidur Rahman. He acknowledged the contributions of the keynote speaker, guests, faculty members, officials, volunteers and students.