Grameenphone Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Oitihya Onneswan today (November 14) for funding the excavation work of the Wari-Bateshwar archeological heritage site.
The MOU was signed by Kafil H. S. Muyeed, Director, New Business Division, Grameenphone Ltd., and Prof. Sufi Mostafizur Rahman of Oitihya Onneswan.
According to the MOU, the two organizations agree that they will work jointly together to explore a sustainable solution to preserve this invaluable national heritage for future generations.
"The Wari-Bateshwar archeological site is an important discovery on the early civilization in this part of the world and Grameenphone is proud to be associated with this project," said Frank Fodstad, Deputy Managing Director of Grameenphone. "I hope this will encourage others as well to come forward in helping to preserve the rich cultural heritage and history of Bangladesh,"
Wari-Bateshwar, situated in the north-eastern part of Bangladesh under Narsingdi district, is one of the most important archeological discoveries ever made in the country. It has significant historical significance dating back to the 2nd urbanization (approx. 500 BC) in the Indian sub-continent. It is believed that Wari-Bateshwar is the ancient emporium "Sounagora" referred to by Ptolemy, which had trade contact with the Roman Empire. All these are recent claims based on the findings unearthed through excavation work that may add considerable information to the history of the early civilization in Bangladesh.
The excavation effort has been undertaken by the Oitihya Onneswan, an archeological research center led by Prof. Sufi Mostafizur Rahman from Department of Archeology of Jahangirnagar University. With proper research and excavation work, it is expected that it will be possible to extract information regarding human settlements from Pre-history to Early History in this region. However, large scale excavation and extensive exploration of the Wari-Bateshwar site is needed to know the exact nature of the civilization, which may prove to be the identity and root of Bangladesh.
Grameenphone Ltd. believes that the preservation of national heritage plays a vital role in the overall development of Bangladesh. As one of the largest corporate houses in the country, Grameenphone Ltd. recognizes its social responsibilities and has made a long-term commitment to be the exclusive sponsor of the Wari-Bateshwar excavation initiative. Through this commitment, Grameenphone will support the initiative both in form of financial resources and assistance in raising public awareness.
The press conference was addressed by Kafil H. S. Muyeed, Director, New Business Division and Syed Yamin Bakht, General Manager, Information Department of Grameenphone, and Prof Sufi Mustafizur Rahman. In his speech, Mr. Muyeed commented that "We start a rich and rewarding journey: to discover and protect the heritage of Bangladesh." The event was attended by the Trustee members of the Oitihya Onneswan and some faculty members of Jahangirnagar University.
Information Department
Grameenphone Ltd.
Phone: 9882990