About Me
Dr. Israfil Shaheen
Prof. Dr. Israfil Shaheen is a distinguished academic, theatre director, researcher, and cultural educator currently serving as the Vice-Chancellor of Thakurgaon University. With more than four decades of experience in theatre studies, higher education, and academic leadership, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of performing arts and cultural research in Bangladesh and beyond. He was appointed as the first Vice-Chancellor of Thakurgaon University, where he is committed to building a modern institution focused on academic excellence, innovation, and social impact.
Before assuming this role, Prof. Dr. Shaheen served as a Professor in the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies at the University of Dhaka, where he contributed extensively to teaching, research, and institutional development. Throughout his academic journey, he has directed more than 40 theatrical productions, supervised hundreds of student-led performances, and published over 50 research articles and scholarly works in the field of theatre and performance studies.
His expertise and contributions have gained international recognition through participation in conferences, workshops, and collaborative initiatives across numerous countries. Through visionary leadership, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to cultural and educational development, Prof. Dr. Israfil Shaheen continues to inspire future generations and contribute to the advancement of higher education in Bangladesh.
years of experience in theatre world.
research books and articles published.
student-led productions supervised.
AWARDS & HONORS
Awards
His contributions to theatre have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious ‘Munir Chowdhury Padak-2017’ and ‘Syed Mohidul Islam Padak- 2021’.
1. Munir Choudhury Padak
2. Syed Mohidul Islam Padak
1. Munir Choudhury Padak
Munir Choudhury Padak 2017
Dr. Israfil Shaheen, director and professor of the department of theatre and performance studies of Dhaka University, was honoured with prestigious award ` Munir Choudhury Padak 2017’ for his contribution to theatre activities and studies in Bangladesh. The award giving ceremony that marked late playwright Munir Choudhury’s 92nd birth anniversary was held at National Art Gallery Auditorium of BSA on November 27, 2017 where premier’s international affairs advisor Professor Dr. Gowher Rizvi was present as the chief guest.
2. Syed Mohidul Islam Padak
Syed Mohidul Islam Padak 2021
This award was conferred to theatre personality and professor of Dhaka University’s Theatre and Performance Studies department, Dr Israfil Shaheen. The event was also presented the ‘The Manchabandhu Padak’ and ‘The Jugol’ honorary awards. The event, organized by Batikrom Natya Goshti, is in honour of Mohidul Islam’s 20th death anniversary and the troupe’s 46th anniversary. It featured various cultural activities including musical performances, dance recitals and theatrical plays.
Academic Life
Educational Background
Here, you can find details about my academic journey and the qualifications that have helped shape my professional and personal growth.
Bachelor of Social Science (BSS)
Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) in Political Science, University of Dhaka, 1982-88. Special Academic Training in Subsidiary courses: Philosophy and History as part of Bachelor’s degree.
Master of Arts
Master of Arts in Dramatic Literature, Theatre and Performance Studies, National School of Drama, New Delhi, India, 1988-91.
Fellowship
Fellowship in Ethnicity, Social Ritual, Community Performance, and Indigenous Culture. Obtained Experiential Training from Manipuri Theatre and Kerala Theatre from 1991-92, awarded by the National School of Drama, New Delhi.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the epistemic area of Political Performance in the Context of South Asian History, Cultural Resistance, and Agitational Propaganda (Agit-prop).
Faculty Life
Teaching Experience
With a passion for fostering learning and growth, I have had the privilege of shaping the academic journeys of students across a variety of subjects and educational settings. My teaching philosophy centers on creating an engaging, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their background.
Lecturer
Lecturer, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Dhaka.
Chairman
Chairman, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Dhaka.
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Dhaka.
Associate Professor
Associate Professor, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Dhaka.
Professor
Professor, Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Dhaka.
Vice-Chancellor
Vice-Chancellor, Thakurgaon University
Creative Engagement
Professional Associations
University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh
Expert and examiner in the research cell.
Kazi Nazrul Islam University
Department of Theatre and Performance Studies, Core member involved in launching and initiating the department.
University of Rajshahi
Visiting faculty member, external examiner, and syllabus moderator.
University of Chittagong
Visiting faculty member, external examiner, and syllabus moderator
Jaganath University
Visiting faculty member, external examiner, and syllabus moderator.
North South University
Adjunct faculty member and syllabus moderator.
Stamford University
Adjunct faculty member and syllabus moderator.
University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
Adjunct faculty and syllabus moderator.
Tejgaon College
Contributed to the establishment of drama departments and served as a curriculum expert.
Habibullah Bahar College
Contributed to the establishment of drama departments and served as a curriculum expert.
Abu Jar Gifari College
Contributed to the establishment of drama departments and served as a curriculum expert.
Cox's Bazar City College
Contributed to the establishment of drama departments and served as a curriculum expert.