Photo: Messenger
BRAC University organized its 16th Convocation today (Tuesday, 25 February 2025) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal, Dhaka, celebrating the theme “Excellence in You." The event honored the achievements of graduating students and recognized their dedication to academic excellence and innovation.
A total of 4,829 students received degrees while 2 Chancellor’s gold medals and 28 Vice-Chancellor’s gold medals were awarded in various categories at the graduation ceremony.
Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud, Honorable Adviser to the Ministry of Education, presented the Chancellor’s gold medals as the chief guest and Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, presented the Vice-Chancellor’s gold medals.
Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, an Academy Award-winning filmmaker and journalist, was the convocation speaker. Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of BRAC University, was also present.
Chinoy urged the graduates to hold onto their convictions and follow their hearts. She also asked to learn from life’s trials, pointing out that failures were stepping stones as when the door to one endeavor closes, another naturally opens. Build on the promise of democracy, ensure that every voice is heard and speak out fearlessly for what is right as having the courage to stand up is important, she added.
Valedictorian and Chancellor’s gold medalist (Undergraduate Program) Shihab Muhtasim gave the farewell speech.The valedictorian said if one truly wishes to succeed in an endeavor, it is important to enjoy it. Small changes in mindset can have a big impact. He also urged to continually try to keep improving and to carry BRAC University’s values throughout life.
Tamara Hasan Abed said sustainable change requires ethical leaders, the creation of sensible human beings and helping others reach their potential. “We need to rethink our lives beyond material needs and through collective understanding to establish a new trajectory for the Global South,” she added.
Professor Wahiduddin said by joining last August’s protests, BRAC University students proved that private university students not only focus on their careers but also try to do good for society. He urged the graduates to honestly carry out their responsibilities in their respective sectors in order to do good for society. Do not choose a profession for the money it helps to earn or the glamour that it draws, rather focus on what the heart yearns for, he said, adding that focus must remain on maintaining moral compass as no nation can truly be great without it.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ferhat Anwar asked the graduates to learn the art of embracing change, which is a natural process, for spiritual and personal growth. Life altering processes take time to heal and a humanistic approach leads to human well-being, he said.
Dr. Sadia Hamid Kazi, Chair of the Convocation Committee and Chairperson of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, gave the vote of thanks.
Pubali Bank was one of the convocation’s sponsors while MM Ispahani Limited was the hot beverage partner.
Aspiring to be a leading institution in the Global South, BRAC University shapes future leaders who not only excel academically but also possess the skills and confidence to apply their knowledge in the real world. With a commitment to empathy and ethics, they go on to drive meaningful societal progress.
Messenger/Tushar
