The 24th Convocation of East West University (EWU) was held on Wednesday at the university’s Aftabnagar Sports Ground in the capital, with a total of 2,885 undergraduate and graduate students receiving their degrees.
Education Adviser Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar conferred the degrees on the graduating students. Six students were also awarded gold medals in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements.
Addressing the ceremony, Dr Abrar congratulated the new graduates and highlighted the growing opportunities created by advanced technologies.
He also cautioned against the rising challenges of intolerance, ultranationalism, and narrow-minded attitudes, urging the younger generation to confront these issues and work towards building a world of justice, peace, and tolerance.
Convocation speaker Syed Nasim Manzur, managing director of Apex Footwear Limited, emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship in shaping the country’s future over the next 25 to 30 years.
He encouraged graduates to prepare for entrepreneurship rather than solely seeking employment, stressing the need to understand various stages of a business venture to avoid potential losses; and referring to China as a role model, he noted that contributing to the national GDP is possible by establishing both large and small enterprises.
Special guest Professor Dr S M A Faiz, chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), said the UGC has adopted new approaches to ensure a better educational environment in Bangladesh. He also advised the graduates to prioritize family values alongside their professional responsibilities.
EWU Board of Trustees Chairperson and founding Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammed Farashuddin called for the formation of a standard Education Commission and the implementation of an innovative and modern education policy.
He urged graduates to effectively utilize the country’s resources and opportunities to counter the prevailing notion that Bangladesh is overly dependent on imports.
Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Shams Rahman underscored the significance of technological and communication skills, alongside creativity, in transforming the country's population into a productive powerhouse. He encouraged graduates to move beyond traditional boundaries and pursue innovative ideas.
The ceremony was attended by National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, Vice Chancellors of different universities, cultural personalities, members of the Board of Trustees, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Treasurer, Registrar, Deans, Chairpersons, faculty members, staff, graduates, and their families.