Academic credentials alone will not ensure success in the global arena without competence, discipline, and credibility, said Dr Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.
He made the remarks while presiding over the 7th Convocation of the State University of Bangladesh (SUB) at its permanent campus in Purbachal New Town on Sunday. This year’s convocation was dedicated to the memory of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Bin Hadi.
Dr Asif, who attended as the representative of the Chancellor and President of Bangladesh, Mohammed Shahabuddin, reflected on Bangladesh’s economic and social advancement but raised concerns over institutional fragility.
“Over 54 years of independence, Bangladesh has progressed significantly at the individual level, yet we have faltered in institution-building,” he said. “Institutions such as the police, judiciary, and civil administration were once moving forward. But over the past decade and a half, their foundations have weakened, making governance increasingly difficult.”
Drawing comparisons with Europe after the Second World War, he stressed that sustainable development depends on strong institutions rather than personalities. “Countries that invested in institutions achieved lasting progress. But in Bangladesh, individuals and families were prioritised over systems, and as a result, our successes have struggled to endure,” he added.
At the beginning of his speech, he paid tribute to the late Osman Hadi, praying for the eternal peace of his soul.
UGC Chairman Professor Dr SMA Faiz delivered the convocation speech, describing today’s graduates as “talented and courageous” in a rapidly changing knowledge landscape. “Education is no longer confined to textbooks. Technology is constantly reshaping how we learn. These changes will create challenges, but graduates must turn those challenges into opportunities,” he said.
He urged the youth to contribute to nation-building with humanity and ethical values, adding that the future of Bangladesh rests on the shoulders of an informed and skilled new generation.
The welcome address was given by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Akhter Hossain Khan. Other speakers included Board of Trustees President Dr A M Shamim, Vice-President Dr Md Mahbubur Rahman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Nawzia Yasmin, and deans from multiple faculties.
A total of 672 graduates from 10 departments received their undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, while three students earned the Chancellor’s Gold Medal, four received the Vice-Chancellor’s Silver Medal, and 20 were awarded the Dean’s Award.
University officials, faculty members, graduates, Syndicate and Academic Council members joined a traditional procession after entering the campus through the main gate at 11am. The convocation day ended with a cultural programme in the evening.
Students, alumni, faculty, officials from military and civil services, media representatives, and other distinguished guests attended the ceremony.
Established in 2002, SUB is now one of the country’s leading private universities. More than 15,000 graduates have received their degrees across six previous convocations, the most recent held in 2022.
The Purbachal campus was filled with colour and celebration throughout the day as graduates in gowns and caps embraced friends, took photos, and marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
