Criticizing the Israeli occupation in Gaza, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Friday said that what is happening in Gaza is unbearable and such incidents occur because of the lack of unity in the Muslim Ummah.

Inhumane incidents have occurred not only in Gaza but in various parts of the world, he said.

Hasan made the remarks as the chief guest at the 36th convocation ceremony of the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) in Gazipur on Friday (June 28) morning.

Addressing the students, the Minister urged, "Currently, people have become self-centered. As a result, humanity and love is non existent now. We are continuously becoming like machines. I urge you not to become like machines."

He further stated, "We are in an era of rapid scientific and technological change. The paradigms of life and living are changing around us. In this era of technological advancement, where artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing, and genetics are reshaping our world, the role of IUT is more crucial. It is not only about providing technical knowledge but also about creating leaders, innovators, and researchers who can utilize these technologies for the betterment of society."

The convocation ceremony, held at the university's auditorium, was presided over by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam. Other speakers included Ahmad Kawesa Sengendo, OIC Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Affairs, Professor Dr. Saleh Ibrahim Alkasumi, Chairman of the IUT Governing Board, and Professor Dr. Mohammad Ataul Karim.

The organizers informed that 543 students from 14 countries graduated in this convocation. Among them, 480 were from Bangladesh and 63 were international students. This group included one Ph.D. and 27 MSc students. Eight graduates received OIC and IUT Gold Medals for academic excellence.