Give back to society

Education and knowledge a person earns throughout her or his life should be used for the wellbeing of human society, said Jatiya Sangsad Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury yesterday.

She was addressing as the convocation speaker the 19th convocation of Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) on its Bashundhara campus in Dhaka, says a press release.

Calling upon the students, she said, “We all have just one life; so, make it meaningful and focus only on what you desire to succeed and spread all your successes for the wellbeing of the underprivileged people.”

In order to obtain a peaceful, prosperous and terrorism-free world, all have to join hands. Bangladesh can be a role model in this regard, she said.

Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid presided over the ceremony and conferred degrees on graduates on behalf of President Abdul Hamid, also chancellor of the university.

In his speech, Nahid said, “Leading private universities like IUB are truly making significant contributions towards achieving government's higher education goals.”

These universities require more structured support from the government to make the real difference, said Nahid.

He urged the graduating students to be change-makers.

Addressing as a special guest, Prof Abdul Mannan, chairman of the University Grants Commission, assured IUB of providing all essential support from his institution in the days to come.

Abdul Hai Sarker, chairman of Education, Science, Technology and Cultural Development Trust (ESTCDT), highlighted that IUB trust will continue efforts to ensure quality higher education.

Rashed Chowdhury, chairman, board of trustees of IUB, said, “Education and experience gathered from IUB will help the graduates conquer the manifold challenges of the real world.”

Vice Chancellor Prof M Omar Rahman expected that the graduates will retain their passions to think differently, contribute to humanity and succeed eventually.

Prof Milan Pagon, pro-VC (designate), other faculty members and officials of IUB and dignitaries were present.

A total of 1,119 students received certificates for completing honours and master's degrees. This year, IUB is completing its 25th year of journey.