Rajshahi:A four-day Tourism Fair and Food Festival commenced today at Rajshahi University (RU), organized by the university's Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management for the fourth time, taking place on the Rabindra Bhaban premises.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the inaugural ceremony was held this morning with Vice-Chancellor Professor Faridul Islam acting as the chief guest. Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqui, the Chief Executive Officer of the Bangladesh Tourism Board, was present as the chief patron. The event was presided over by Professor Zahid Hossain, Chairman of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management. Other notable attendees included Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Alim, Treasurer Professor Matiar Rahman, and Chandan Chandra Sarker, SP of Tourist Police, Rajshahi Region.
At the event, former Chief Executive Officer of the Bangladesh Tourism Board, Jabed Ahmed, delivered a presentation on the significance, potential, and future of the tourism industry. Professor Enayet Hossain, the convener of the event, provided the welcome speech.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Md. Faridul Islam, speaking as the chief guest, highlighted the growing domestic tourism industry in Bangladesh, emphasizing the critical role played by RU's Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management. He noted that graduates from this department have a competitive edge in employment opportunities. The Vice-Chancellor also mentioned the introduction of Chinese language education programs and plans to offer more foreign language courses to support tourism development.
Special guest Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Alim remarked on Bangladesh's potential in tourism and the increasing public interest in the sector. He emphasized the need for entrepreneurs and skilled workforce to support this growth and expressed optimism that the RU-organized fair would significantly promote tourism in the country.
The fair features 46 stalls focused on various tourism-related topics and includes cultural programs scheduled every day from 6 pm.