Staff Reporter, (Gazipur) : Education Advisor to the Government of Bangladesh, Prof. Dr. C R Abrar, has urged graduates to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and ethical leaders dedicated to the progress of their nations and the Muslim Ummah.
He made the call while addressing the 37th Convocation of the Islamic University of Technology (IUT) as Chief Guest on Sunday (26 October) at the university campus in Gazipur. The event was attended by dignitaries from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), diplomats, faculty members and graduating students from various OIC member states.
The ceremony was also graced by His Excellency Ambassador Aftab Ahmed Khokher, Assistant Secretary General (Science and Technology) of the OIC, Prof. Dr. Mustafizur Rahman, Convocation Speaker and former Professor at the National University of Singapore, and Prof. Dr. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Vice-Chancellor of IUT.
Bangladesh’s Commitment to IUT : Prof. Dr. Abrar reaffirmed Bangladesh’s unwavering support to IUT, the only international university established by the OIC in the country.
“Bangladesh is proud to host IUT and will continue to extend its full cooperation for the institution’s growth and success,” he said.
He emphasized that education is not an expenditure but an investment in peace, prosperity, and human capital for the Muslim world.
Empowering Youth for the Future : Highlighting Bangladesh’s education reforms, the Education Advisor said the government is prioritizing equitable access, quality improvement, and digital transformation.
“We want our learners to be globally competitive—equipped with skills in STEM, entrepreneurship, and innovation,” he noted.
He encouraged graduates to take bold initiatives in technology and entrepreneurship: “If every graduate waits for employment, who will create the jobs? The OIC countries need job creators, not job seekers.”
Faith, Ethics, and Inclusion : Prof. Dr. Abrar paid tribute to students and alumni who sacrificed their lives during the July 2024 movement, including IUT alumnus Zahiduzzaman Tanvin, and praised IUT’s efforts in promoting gender inclusion and international excellence.
He concluded by urging graduates to use their education as a trust (Amanah) to serve humanity with integrity, innovation, and compassion.
“Carry your faith as your moral compass, your knowledge as your light, and your compassion as your strength,” he said.