Kolom Academy’s anniversary celebrated in the UAE

Forhad Hossain, UAE: The UAE chapter of the international literary organization Kolom Academy London celebrated its 15th founding anniversary on Saturday (September 27) in Abu Dhabi with a discussion meeting and cake-cutting ceremony at an elite restaurant.

The event was presided over by Abu Taiyab Chowdhury, President of the UAE chapter, while the discussion was conducted by advisor Mohammad Zafar Bhuiyan. Speakers highlighted that Kolom Academy is playing an important role in spreading literature among the expatriate community and inspiring the younger generation to engage in writing. They also emphasized ensuring state recognition and dignity for writers and literary figures.

During the discussion, speakers presented 19 demands, including the establishment of a Ministry of Writers, granting state recognition to writers, and declaring September 18 as “Writers’ Rights Day.” They expressed the view that fulfilling these demands would enrich the practice of literature and culture.

Among those who spoke were chief advisor and journalist Jahangir Kabir Bappi, advisor and journalist Forhad Hossain, community leader and businessman Mahbub Khondokar, journalist M. Abdul Mannan, publicity and publication secretary Mahbub Sarkar, executive member Mahbubul Alam, member Rafiqul Islam Roman, businessman Mohammad Masum, Mainuddin, and journalists Abdul Mannan Rana, Mahfuzur Rahman Sagor, and Nasir Uddin.

Speakers noted that literature is the driving force behind a nation’s intellectual growth. They said showcasing the writings and ideas of expatriate authors in mainstream society would bring greater global recognition to Bangladeshis abroad.

The event drew a large number of expatriate Bangladeshis, who said that such literary and cultural programs enrich the mental landscape of the diaspora and strengthen social bonds.

The celebration concluded with the cutting of an anniversary cake.

LND/SAE