Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized the critical role of universities in fostering academic excellence, research, and innovation during the Dean's Merit Award 2026 distribution ceremony at Barishal University.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Swapon highlighted that universities are not merely centers for higher education but are pivotal in nation-building. He underscored the importance of today's students as future leaders and responsible citizens, whose talent, integrity, and progressive thinking are vital for building a prosperous and equitable society.
Swapon stressed the significance of equipping students with modern knowledge, scientific education, and moral values to prepare them for leadership roles in the future. He advocated for providing students with proper guidance and adequate opportunities to develop their capabilities. The minister linked students' achievements to the country's overall development and progress, emphasizing the need for the younger generation to use their talent and creativity for national welfare.
During his address to the award recipients, Swapon noted that accolades like the Dean's Merit Award promote healthy competition and inspire students to focus on their studies and research. Such recognition, he added, plays a crucial role in nurturing future leaders of the country. He urged students to aim not only for academic excellence but also to become honest, responsible, compassionate, and patriotic citizens.
Minister Swapon further elaborated on the global context, noting that nations excelling in knowledge, science, research, and technology lead in economic growth, education, healthcare, and human resource development. He pointed out that a nation's true strength lies not just in its natural resources but in its ability to harness these resources through knowledge, skills, and innovation. He observed that many resource-rich countries struggle due to inadequate knowledge, limited technical expertise, and weak governance.
The ceremony also featured remarks from BU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Mamun Or Rashid and English department faculty Prof Dr. Md. Mohsin Uddin, with Dr. Hafiz Ashraful Haque, Dean of the Faculty of Bio-Sciences, presiding over the event. A total of 109 students from various faculties received the Dean's Merit Award.