Economics Department Clinches Title in PADF-CU Interverse 1.0 Debate Finals

The Department of Public Administration at the University of Chittagong hosted the grand finale of Interverse 1.0, an inter-departmental debate competition organised by the Public Administration Debate Federation – CU (PADF-CU) on May 24 and 25, 2025. The event brought together 24 teams from various departments of the university, competing over six rounds of rigorous debate.

The Department of Economics secured the championship title, with team members Ilham Sarar, Ramisha Chowdhury, and Nafiz Imtiaz demonstrating consistent strength and clarity in their arguments. The Department of Statistics finished as runner-up, represented by Ridwan Ahmed Siam, Ankita Chakraborty, and Zubayer Sarkar, who performed strongly throughout the contest.

Ratul Sheikh from the Department of Physics was awarded the Debater of the Tournament for his sustained performance across multiple rounds. Nafiz Imtiaz of the Department of Economics received the Debater of the Final award for his pivotal role in the championship round.

The event was attended by key figures from the university, including Professor Dr. M. Yeahia Akhter, Vice Chancellor of the University of Chittagong, who served as the chief guest. In his address, Dr Akhter emphasised the importance of debate in developing students’ analytical abilities and communication skills, congratulating the organisers on successfully executing the competition. Other dignitaries included Professor Dr Md. Kamal Uddin, pro-vice-chancellor (Administration); Professor Mamtaj Uddin Ahmed, chairman of the Department of Public Administration; Professor Dr Sonia Haque; and Lecturer Mahbubur Rahman.

The ceremony also welcomed members of the CU Public Administration Alumni Association, including Arif Ahmed, general secretary; Noor Hossain Nizami, treasurer; and Mohammad Didarul Alam, publicity Secretary, who attended to support the event and engage with current students. The program was chaired by Meherunnesa Khanam, President of PADF-CU.

Professor Mamtaj Uddin Ahmed addressed the audience, highlighting the role of debating in complementing academic study and fostering leadership and communication skills critical for students’ overall development.

PADF-CU expressed appreciation to all participants, guests, and sponsors who contributed to the event’s success, marking Interverse 1.0 as a significant intellectual platform within the University of Chittagong.

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