Dhaka: Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain today called on universities to equip students with global outlook, ethical values and adaptability alongside academic excellence to help them confront contemporary global challenges. He made the remarks while addressing the 9th convocation of the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT) as the President’s representative at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Touhid emphasized that education should not be the exclusive privilege of a few, but rather a powerful instrument for inclusive and sustainable national progress. Praising IUBAT’s knowledge-based area development programme, he stated that the initiative demonstrated that higher education is accessible to all. He also highlighted the university’s alignment with global realities through clear objectives and strategic foresight, citing international recognitions, including QS and Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, as evidence of the university’s academic excellence and innovation.
Convocation speaker Professor Dr Jeff Keshen, President of Canada’s University of Regina, underscored the importance of higher education and international academic cooperation in a globalised world. At the convocation, nearly 1,000 students from agriculture, engineering, BBA, nursing, and other faculties received undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
In recognition of outstanding academic performance, Shahreen Khandakar of the Agriculture Department, Lutfunnahar Kamini of the English Department, and Maharunnesa Mitu of the Public Health Department received gold medals, while Shahreen Khandakar also won the prestigious Alimulya Mian Award for highest distinction. IUBAT Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Abdur Rab delivered the welcome address, while Treasurer Professor Selina Nargis offered the vote of thanks. Members of the Board of Trustees, teachers, students, and local and foreign guests were present at the ceremony.