Education advisor Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud spoke as the chief guest at the 16th convocation ceremony of private university Brac today. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Feb 25, 2025 (BSS) – The BRAC University 
organized its 16th Convocation today at the Bangladesh-
China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal 
celebrating the theme “Excellence in You." 

The event honored the achievements of graduating 
students and recognized their dedication to academic 
excellence and innovation.

A total of 4,829 students received degrees while two 
Chancellor’s gold medals and 28 Vice-Chancellor’s gold 
medals were awarded in various categories at the 
graduation ceremony, said a press release.

Professor Dr Wahiduddin Mahmud, Adviser to the Ministry 
of Education, presented the Chancellor’s gold medals as 
the chief guest and Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-
Chancellor of BRAC University, presented the Vice-
Chancellor’s gold medals.

Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, an Academy Award-winning 
filmmaker and journalist, was the convocation speaker. 
Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees 
of BRAC University, was also present. 

Professor Wahiduddin said by joining last August’s 
protests, BRAC University students proved that private 
university students not only focus on their careers but 
also try to do good for the society. 
He urged the graduates to honestly carry out their 
responsibilities in their respective sectors in order to 
do good for society. 

“Do not choose a profession for the money it helps to 
earn or the glamour that it draws, rather focus on what 
the heart yearns for,” he said, adding that focus must 
remain on maintaining moral compass as no nation can 
truly be great without it.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ferhat Anwar asked the 
graduates to learn the art of embracing change, which is 
a natural process, for spiritual and personal growth. 
“Life altering processes take time to heal and a 
humanistic approach leads to human well-being,” he said.

Chinoy urged the graduates to hold onto their 
convictions and follow their hearts. She also asked to 
learn from life’s trials, pointing out that failures 
were stepping stones as when the door to one endeavor 
closes, another naturally opens. 

“Build on the promise of democracy, ensure that every 
voice is heard and speak out fearlessly for what is 
right as having the courage to stand up is important,” 
she added. 

Valedictorian and Chancellor’s gold medalist 
(Undergraduate Program) Shihab Muhtasim gave the 
farewell speech. The valedictorian said if one truly 
wishes to succeed in an endeavor, it is important to 
enjoy it. 

Tamara Hasan Abed said sustainable change requires 
ethical leaders, the creation of sensible human beings 
and helping others reach their potential. “We need to 
rethink our lives beyond material needs and through 
collective understanding to establish a new trajectory 
for the Global South,” she added.

Dr. Sadia Hamid Kazi, Chair of the Convocation Committee 
and Chairperson of the Department of Computer Science 
and Engineering, gave the vote of thanks.

Pubali Bank was one of the convocation’s sponsors while 
MM Ispahani Limited was the hot beverage partner.