Renowned British archeologist David Michelmore delivered an interactive lecture at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) campus auditorium in front of attending students and faculty members. In the lecture, the veteran archeologist discussed about the rich history of Bangladesh, and opportunities for upgrade and future development of archeological practices in the country.
Although Bangladeshi universities have been playing an increasingly prominent role, Archeology is still mainly the function of the Department of Archeology under the government. The lecture highlighted the positive and negative aspects of the current 
archeological practices in the country. Dating back to 1861, the Department of Archeology has a rich heritage of unearthing and playing a role in preserving this region’s ancient history. However, outdated practices now act as a hindrance towards realizing full potential of this field.
Highlighting the positive and negative aspects of Archeology in Bangladesh, David Michelmore said,‘It is positive in that the Department of Archeology is thoroughly institutionalized within the government of Bangladesh, has a large establishment, and plays an active role in many heritage sites. Negative points include an over-confidence in the use of outdated methodologies enshrined in regulation dating to 1938, and an institutional lethargy encouraging the acceptance of the status quo and an unwillingness to embrace change. As a result, archaeology in Bangladesh is generally in a time-warp dating to the mid-20thcentury, reflecting the period when Sir Mortimer Wheeler was DG of the ASI.’
Further In his presentation, Michelmore explored ways in which the current archeological practices can be upgraded and modernized accommodating updatedresearch and survey techniques, as well as how the conservation methods of excavated remains needs to be transformed to meet accepted international standards. He also emphasized on the need to abandon common destructive practices that severely damage or destroy the authenticity of heritage sites.
David Michelmore graduated with Honors in Archeology and History from the University of Exeter and earned a Master of Philosophy from University Leeds. In 1992, he founded the Consultancy for Conservation and Development. He has so far worked in 40 different countries on numerous international projects funded by UNESCO, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, the European Investment Bank, and the European Union.
ULAB, the host of the program, is a pioneering university in Bangladesh in the field of archeology. It is one of the few universities in the country to support the preservation of Bangladesh’s ancient heritage by specifically allocating university funds for excavation.
ULAB Professor and Archaeologist Dr. ShahnajHusneJahan has obtained permission from the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to conduct a systematic archaeological exploration and excavation at Bhitargarh in Panchagarh district.
About ULAB
Founded in 2004, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh has rapidly established itself as a top-tier private university in Bangladesh. One of the only research-intensive universities in the country, its offers a wide range of Undergraduate and Graduate courses to more than 4,000 students.
