INTERNATIONAL STUDENT DIES

Md Isfaqur Rahman (Sifat) who was completing his Master of Engineering with Charles Darwin University (CDU) has died from the critical head injuries he sustained in what has been described as a violent home invasion during an alleged aggravated burglary.

Police rushed to the Trower Road home in Millner just before 4:30am on Wednesday, the 2^nd of May, after reports there had been a break in.

The 23-year-old student was found by his flatmates in the home with “significant injuries” before he was rushed to Royal Darwin Hospital, and a 29-year-old man was arrested shortly after the incident occurred and remains in custody but no charge have been laid as the investigation continues.

The University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Scott Bowman said the entire CDU community was shocked by the news, labelling the attack as “sickening”.

“this is a young man who travelled from the other side of the planet to come to Darwin for his education and this sickening attack has left us all speechless, devastated and angry”.

The student has only started at CDU in February studying a Master of Information Sciences after being recruited from his home country.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends at this very difficult time.”

The Top end Islamic and student communities have rallied behind him, a peaceful protest took place at the Casuarina Campus on Thursday May 4^th , calling for justice for the victim and to demand stronger measures to ensure the safety of international students in our community.

There are many of you who want to help. Thank you. CDU has established an appeal in Sifat’s name, and will work with the family on how donations are spent. You can give to the appeal here

A tribute concert has also been organised at the CDU Ampitheatre at the Casuarina campus on Saturday May 13th.

The MonkMoney Tribute Concert for Sifat, organised by the Bangladeshi Student Association of Charles Darwin University (BSACDU) and the Bangladeshi Alumni Association of Charles Darwin University (BAACDU), will be held from 5pm to 10pm. It will feature a line-up of talented artists including Bangladeshi musician and singer-songwriter Topu, Bangladeshi rock band AvoidRafa and performances from local international communities.

Proceeds from the concert will be contributed towards the Sifat Memorial Fund, created by the BSACDU to support initiatives such as safe accommodation, transport and safety for international students coming to Darwin.

Individual tickets are $40 each and bundle packages are available. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here

Story compiled from various sources including news.com.au