NSU's 25th convocation inspires next generation leaders

Convocation marks a pivotal milestone in a student's life, symbolising the culmination of years of hard work and the gateway to a professional journey. It is a celebration of achievements and a transition to new opportunities and responsibilities that lie ahead.

North South University (NSU), widely regarded as one of Bangladesh's top universities, marked its 25th Convocation Ceremony on Saturday (December 7) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Centre at Purbachal, Dhaka. With over 8,000 graduates receiving their degrees, the event underscored NSU's ongoing dedication to developing talent and promoting academic achievement.

The ceremony was presided over by Education and Planning Adviser Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud, who conferred degrees on behalf of President Mohammed Shahabuddin, chancellor of all universities in the country. Chair of the Department of Mathematics & Physics and Convocation Marshal Professor Md Mamun Molla opened the event with remarks that welcomed distinguished guests, faculty members, and graduates.

Adding a personal touch, valedictorians from the 2022 and 2023 graduating batches delivered inspiring speeches, sharing reflections on their academic journeys and hopes for the future. Their heartfelt words resonated with the audience, embodying the spirit of ambition and resilience that defines NSU graduates.

UN Resident Coordinator for Bangladesh Ms Gwyn Lewis was the convocation speaker. She said, "Bangladesh now stands on the cusp of transformation. It is now up to you, the next generation of leaders, to rise to the challenge, continue the fight for justice, and lead your nation to be a beacon of hope, respect, and equality for the generations to come."

Chairman of the NSU Board of Trustees Azim Uddin Ahmed congratulated the graduating students on their achievements and commended their hard work. He said, "Today marks the fulfilment of long-cherished dreams for our graduates. It is a day of pride and joy for all of us, celebrating their perseverance and success."

The event also featured inspiring speeches by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, vice-chancellor of NSU. He said, "I am reminded of our shared responsibility to create a sustainable and inclusive future. The educated minds we nurture at NSU hold the key to this vision. With your degrees, you are not just graduates but agents of change, ambassadors of excellence, and torchbearers of NSU's mission."

Professor AKM Waresul Karim, dean of the School of Business and Economics, Professor Md Rizwanul Islam, dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Professor Shazzad Hosain, dean of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and Professor Dipak Kumar Mitra, dean of the School of Health and Life Sciences presented degree candidates to the adviser.

Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud remarked, "This is a transition period. Our government strives to stabilise and ensure a peaceful shift to democratic governance. We believe this student-led uprising will be successful if it transforms our nation into an ideal, democratic society." He added, "For many years, meritocracy has been undervalued in our education system and the broader governance of the country. We have grossly underestimated our talents while witnessing a decline in our general moral standards. In such challenging circumstances, you deserve special congratulations for overcoming the odds and being fortunate enough to thrive in one of the country's premier educational institutions."

The programme concluded as the adviser departed, leaving behind an enduring sense of pride and inspiration among the attendees. 

Four senior Board of Trustee members were not present in the Convocation due legal barriers, they are Mr M.A. Kashem, Mrs. Rehana Rahman, Mr. Benajir Ahmed and Mr Md Shahjahan.