Major General Dr. Md Shahedul Islam (Retd) has officially assumed charge as the new Secretary General of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the apex trade body representing the country’s ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

Bringing over 35 years of multifaceted experience spanning military leadership, international diplomacy, and academia, Dr. Islam previously served as the Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., where he was awarded the prestigious ‘Legion of Merit’ by the United States government.

He holds a PhD and an MPhil from the University of Dhaka, focusing his doctoral research on 'Review and Development of Workers' Skills.' He also earned an MBA from Dhaka University and a Master’s in Management Studies from Osmania University, India. Throughout his distinguished career, he served as a Dean at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), a Treasurer and Professor at the Central University of Science and Technology, and held key positions in UN Peacekeeping Missions.

Welcoming the new Secretary General, the BGMEA leadership expressed optimism that Dr. Islam’s extensive expertise in international diplomacy, strategic innovation, and executive leadership will play a pivotal role in driving continuous growth, enhancing workforce skill sets, and navigating evolving global economic challenges facing the RMG industry.

Expressing his delight at joining the country’s primary export-driving organization, Major General Dr. Md Shahedul Islam (Retd) committed to working closely with the BGMEA Board of Directors and apparel entrepreneurs.

He emphasized his resolve to fortify Bangladesh's position in the global market through product and market diversification, skill development, and strategic navigation of current macroeconomic dynamics.