Chevron-funded summer school at auw empowers 101 college girls in stem

Asian University for Women (AUW) has inaugurated the 2025 edition of its Math and Science Summer School, a month-long STEM-focused residential programme supported by Chevron.
Held at AUW's rooftop campus in Chattogram, the event brings together 101 college girls from across Bangladesh for a hands-on learning experience in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Programming and Public Health.
Launched in 2019, the Chevron-sponsored summer school aims to inspire young women to pursue higher education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This year's programme features faculty members from both local and international institutions, offering students a unique blend of theory and practical application.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Dr Nurun Nahar Chowdhury, NDC, Additional Secretary, Energy and Mineral Resources Division, as the chief guest. In her remarks, she stressed the national importance of STEM education and the vital role young women play in shaping the country's future.
AUW Vice Chancellor Dr Rubana Huq welcomed the participants and reiterated AUW's mission of building leadership through education for women across Asia. Dr Mohiuddin Ahsanul Kabir Chowdhury, Director of the Summer School, introduced the teaching team and officially declared the programme open.
Chevron Bangladesh was represented by Zahir Uddin Mohammed Babur Khan, Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs, and A K M Arif Akter, Head of Community Engagement & Sustainability. Both expressed Chevron's long-standing support for the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to empowering future women leaders in the STEM field.
Other notable guests included Dr Munal Mahbub, Senior Vice President of the Chittagong Women's Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Dr. Fatima Mary Sidotam, Dean of Students at AUW; and faculty representatives from participating colleges.
Alumnae Nusrat Jahan Yamim (2019) and Shah Jafrin Sultana (2024) shared moving stories about how the programme transformed their academic and personal journeys.
Chevron's continued partnership with AUW has enabled the summer school to grow in scale and impact, fostering a new generation of female scientists, technologists, and public health leaders. This initiative reflects Chevron's broader commitment to inclusive development and community resilience through education.