East West University holds 24th Convocation

East West University (EWU) celebrated its 24th Convocation on Wednesday at the university's Aftabnagar campus ground, awarding degrees to 2,885 graduates from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Education Adviser to the Prime Minister, Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, attended the ceremony as the representative of the President and conferred degrees to the graduating students. He also awarded gold medals to six outstanding students in recognition of academic excellence.

Welcoming the new graduates, Dr Abrar reflected on the dual nature of today's technological advances, which, while offering immense opportunities, also accompany the rise of intolerance, ultranationalism, and narrow worldviews. He urged the youth to meet these global challenges with empathy and courage—"to help shape a future founded on peace, justice, and tolerance."

The convocation speaker, Syed Nasim Manzur, Managing Director of Apex Footwear Limited, emphasised the role of youth in driving Bangladesh's future growth. "The next 25 to 30 years of our nation depend on the educated and skilled generation sitting before us," he said. Encouraging entrepreneurship, he stressed the importance of understanding each phase of business operations before launching ventures, and drew inspiration from China's model of economic transformation through both large and small enterprises.

Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Professor Dr S M A Faiz, addressed the gathering as a special guest. He noted that the UGC has been reforming its approach to foster a more conducive academic environment. He also reminded the graduates to prioritise their families while pursuing professional goals.

Professor Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of EWU's Board of Trustees and founding Vice Chancellor, called for the formation of a national Education Commission and the formulation of a modern education policy to align with global standards. "We must wisely utilise the nation's wealth and opportunities to counter the narrative that Bangladesh depends solely on imports," he said.

Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Shams Rahman highlighted the importance of technological, communication, and creative skills among graduates. He encouraged them to break out of conventional moulds and forge new paths through innovation.

Also present were Dr Khalilur Rahman, National Security Adviser and the chief adviser's high representative, Vice Chancellors from various universities, members of the Board of Trustees, faculty members, students, parents, and cultural dignitaries.

Graduating students expressed their joy at receiving degrees on schedule and voiced appreciation for the timely completion of their academic journey.