Renowned physician and academic Dr. Syed Shariful Islam was remembered as a man of rare humanity and dedication at a memorial meeting held on Saturday. Colleagues and students praised his significant contributions to medical science, education, and public health, stating that his legacy will remain immortal in the field of healthcare.

The memorial meeting took place at the lecture hall of the Super Specialized Hospital, where speakers highlighted Dr. Islam’s exceptional qualities and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society. Dr. Islam, former Dean of the Faculty of Preventive and Social Medicine and former Chairman of the Department of Public Health and Informatics at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), passed away on February 22 at the age of 65 while undergoing treatment. He was laid to rest in his family graveyard in Mymensingh.

Professor Dr. Md. Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Principal Advisor, attended the event as the chief guest. He remarked, “Dr. Shariful Islam was extraordinary in his thoughts, knowledge, and understanding. His doors were always open to everyone. As a teacher, he had the unique ability to simplify complex topics like biostatistics, making them accessible to all. The best way to honor his memory is to continue the work he started in advancing medical science in Bangladesh.”

BSMMU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Shahinul Alam also spoke at the event, saying, “Dr. Shariful Islam lived by his beliefs and reflected them in his work. I learned a great deal from him, and his contributions have benefited every department, teacher, and student at BSMMU. With his support, I was able to complete two important publications.”

Speakers at the memorial described Dr. Islam as a humble, kind, and selfless individual who dedicated his life to charity and community service. He had a deep love for nature and planted various trees, including fruit-bearing ones, to benefit both people and birds. His passion for research and thesis development in medical science left an indelible mark on the field.

Dr. Islam, the youngest son of national leader Syed Nazrul Islam, was also remembered for his amiable personality and lack of ego. “He never sought recognition or power,” said one speaker. “His focus was always on serving others and contributing to the greater good.”

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Emeritus Professor Dr. ABM Abdullah, BSMMU Registrar Professor Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam, Dr. Islam’s elder brother Professor Syed Manzurul Islam, Professor Dr. Sohel Reza Chowdhury, Professor Dr. Shah Abdus Salam, medical scientist Dr. Md. Aminul Islam, and BSMMU Proctor Dr. Sheikh Farhad, along with university faculty, physicians, and students.

The memorial was chaired by Professor Dr. Md. Atiqul Haque, Chairman of the Department of Public Health and Informatics and Dean of the Faculty of Preventive and Social Medicine at BSMMU.

Dr. Shariful Islam’s passing has left a void in the medical community, but his contributions to education, research, and public health will continue to inspire future generations. His life serves as a testament to the power of humility, dedication, and service to humanity.