BRAC University pays tribute to Dr Salehuddin Ahmed
BRAC University held a memorial for Dr Salehuddin Ahmed at its Merul Badda campus in Dhaka on Thursday (5 March 2026).
Dr Salehuddin, who served as pro vice-chancellor of BRAC University from 2005 to 2009, was also a former deputy executive director of BRAC and managing editor of The Daily Star. He died on 19 February 2026 while undergoing treatment in the United States. He was 79 and is survived by his wife, two daughters, and well-wishers.
Speakers at the programme recalled his contributions to BRAC and the university. Ahmed Mushtaque Raza Chowdhury, a member of the board of trustees of BRAC University, said Dr Salehuddin's interest in research was 'enormous' and that he helped advance BRAC's evidence-based agenda during its early years.
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Lady Syeda Sarwat Abed, founder and adviser of the BRAC Institute of Languages at BRAC University, said Dr Salehuddin had a passion for education and remained a lifelong learner, adding that he took up Mandarin in later years and lived in China for two years before returning to teach the language.
Fuad Hassan Mollick, dean of the School of Architecture and Design, said Dr Salehuddin helped shape BRAC University 'the way a potter moulds a lump of clay', and noted his ability to connect with people.
Imran Matin, executive director of the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development, said Dr Salehuddin supported young minds during the formative years of BRAC and BRAC University, and that more people like him are needed.
Dr Erum Mariam, executive director of the BRAC Institute of Educational Development, said he was accessible and could facilitate solutions quickly. Professor Dr Md Golam Samdani Fakir, director of the Learning and Teaching Innovation Centre, said Dr Salehuddin was among the first to facilitate global collaborations at BRAC University and helped build institutions.
Attendees offered prayers for Dr Salehuddin and later joined the BRAC University annual iftar.
Khairul Basher, director of the Office of Communications at BRAC University, moderated the programme.
