Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar today urged students to develop responsible behavior, make conscious decisions, and cultivate tolerant leadership. Future administrators, teachers, doctors, and policymakers will emerge from the student community, so they must become capable as the architects of the nation, she added. The adviser made the remarks while addressing the 3rd convocation of Bangladesh University (BU) at Senaprangan convention hall of Dhaka Cantonment today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida Akhtar mentioned that the country’s education system is being affected due to political divisions and lack of tolerance, and students must play an important role in overcoming this crisis. She highlighted that in 2024, the younger generation stood against injustice and oppression, presenting the country in a new light on the global stage. However, individual change alone is not enough; institutional reforms are essential for genuine transformation.
Referring to the upcoming national election, she emphasized the need for youth participation not only in forming the government but also in shaping policies and structures of state governance. She called upon students to cast ‘Yes’ votes in the upcoming referendum to implement the reforms and demand appeared at mass uprising.
Urging the youth to be health-conscious, the adviser pointed out that smoking and tobacco products are major causes of non-communicable diseases. She stressed the importance of self-control to keep themselves and society tobacco-free, without solely relying on law enforcement.
During the convocation, a total of 5,903 students, including 5,224 undergraduate and 679 postgraduate students, were awarded degrees. Khalilur Rahman received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal, while Nusrat Kabir Brishti was awarded the Kazi Azhar Ali Gold Medal. Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medals and Dean’s Awards were also presented.
UGC Chairman Professor Dr. SMA Faiz, speaking as the convocation speaker, remarked that educated and enlightened individuals have the responsibility to deeply understand the difference between right and wrong. Bangladesh University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md Jahangir Alam and Treasurer Sajed-ul-Islam, among others, also spoke at the event.