"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has announced 'Vision 2021', 'Vision 2041' and 'Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100' to establish an IT-based country ahead of the golden jubilee of independence. We have to work relentlessly to implement these master plans," he said.
The President was delivering his speech at the 4th convocation of Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (Cuet) held on its campus here.
He also expressed his confidence that today's educated young people will take this initiative forward.
Terming Bangladesh as a very potential country, Abdul Hamid said, “This country has huge human resources, fertile farmland and potential natural resources. In order to make this populous country prosperous, it’s necessary to make the best use of the existing resources in a planned way.”
Describing engineers as the makers of development, he said, "Outline of sustainable development comes out of their talents, thought and creative thinking. Therefore, there’ll be clear reflection of foresight in the thinking of engineers.”
The President said development plans should be formulated considering the development of Bangladesh in 2050 or 2100 or what level Bangladesh will reach.
He also said the issue of climate change must also be given importance. "In order to survive in this era of globalisation, we need to take our knowledge and skills to the international standard."
"Remember, we’re citizens of independent and sovereign Bangladesh today. We need to be economically self-sufficient to maintain our self-esteem," Abdul Hamid added.
Abdul Hamid, also chancellor of Cuet, expressed the hope that today's young engineers will realise this seriously and utilise their creative thinking and available knowledge for this purpose.
Cuet Vice-chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Rafiqul Islam delivered the welcome speech at the programme where University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Kazi Shahidullah was also present.
Former UGC Chairman Prof AK Azad Chowdhury was the convocation speaker at the event.
A total of 2,231 students were conferred degrees while four students were given gold medals.