DHAKA: The University of Dhaka, popularly known as the Oxford of the East, is celebrating its 89th founding anniversary Thursday amid a festive mood.

This year’s celebration theme is bannered ‘Education for Building A Digital Bangladesh’.

The University started its journey way back in 1921.

There will be no classes or examinations Thursday, DU Public Relations department said.

University establishments wore a festive look with all decorated tastefully marking the occasion. The Science faculty, Arts faculty, TSC and student dormitories bear a dazzling display of colourful festoons and lights.

Day’s programmes got off to a ceremonial start with a campus march in the morning.

Vice-chancellor Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique inaugurated the programmes hoisting flag. He also cut a cake.

A discussion is on ‘Education for building a digital Bangladesh’ is set at the TSC with Dr. Ahmed Shofee as keynote speaker.

A daylong blood-donation programme is also underway at the TSC, to give the celebrations a human face.

Besides, valuable manuscripts are on display at the Central Library.

Vice-chancellor Siddique urged all to work together for “driving the country on the path of development”.

BDST: 2100 HRS, JULY 1, 2010.