Chattogram City mayor urges young women to lead social change through innovation

Chattogram City Mayor Shahadat Hossain today (31 July) called on young women to lead social transformation through innovation and community-focused entrepreneurship, urging them to apply their knowledge for greater societal impact.

He made the remarks at the closing ceremony of the AUW Math and Science Summer School 2025, where 102 female students from across Bangladesh completed a month-long STEM-based residential program.

"We are on the threshold of the Fourth Industrial Revolution," the mayor said. "I hope many of you become innovators who solve real problems and spark positive change across your communities."

Mayor Shahadat encouraged students to tackle issues like waterlogging and waste through innovation, create jobs for marginalised groups, and champion public health and sustainability awareness.

The program, organised by the Asian University for Women (AUW) and Chevron Bangladesh, promotes science education and leadership among girls, particularly from underrepresented areas.

Chevron has supported the initiative since 2019. After a pandemic pause, 372 students have graduated so far, including this year's cohort of 102.

AKM Arif Akter, Head of Community Engagement & Sustainability at Chevron, said, "In rural areas, myths persist that girls can't excel in science. This program proves otherwise."

AUW's Summer School Coordinator, Iffat Mahjabin, announced a new initiative: top performers from the program will now receive direct undergraduate admission offers at AWU, bypassing entrance exams.

Under this program, students receive instruction in mathematics, physics, chemistry, computer programming, and public health from local and international faculty, alongside leadership training and cultural exchange.

Senior Chevron officials present included Muhammad Imrul Kabir, Chowdhury Hafez Rumel, Shaikh Zahidur Rahman, Mohammad Ferdous, Tahsin Khan, Md Jahangir Khan, and Ali Ashraf Chowdhury, all of whom reaffirmed Chevron's commitment to inclusive education.

University officials, including Deputy Registrar Sanaul Karim Chowdhury, Dean of Student Affairs Fatima Mary Sidotam, and Program Director Mohiuddin Ahsanul Kabir Chowdhury, praised the students' dedication.

Certificates were awarded to all participants. Many described the experience as transformative, inspiring them to pursue careers in science while contributing to social progress.