Dhaka University (DU) has declared a one-day holiday on Sunday (March 16) in honour of its former Vice-Chancellor Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique, who passes away on Thursday.

The decision was made though a notification issued by the university`s Public Relations Office on Saturday.

"As per normal practices announcements were made via loudspeakers across the campus after Dr Arefin Sidique`s death, condolence messages were issued, a special prayer was held at the central mosque, and arrangements were made to inform everyone about the funeral details with the family`s consent," the notification said.

The funeral prayer and burial arrangements were made in accordance with the family`s wishes, which the university administration fully respected, it added.

Professor Arefin Siddique was admitted to the ICU of the Neuroscience Unit at Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital after falling ill on March 7. The next day DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmad Khan visited him at the hospital and inquired about his condition.

Throughout his treatment, the administration remained in regular contact with his family, colleagues and well-wishers.