Staff Reporter :
“Many doubted whether Bangladesh would survive, but the people have shown that a promising new Bangladesh has begun,” stated Professor Dr. Ali Riaz, Chief of the Interim Government’s Constitutional Reform Commission.
He acknowledged that the deep-rooted inequalities in the country could not be resolved in just a few months. However, he emphasised that while the movement of the 1990s demonstrated that people can bring change, the movement of 2024 is proving that they are driving change.
He made these remarks on Tuesday (February 11) as the chief guest at the fresher’s reception ceremony for the 2023-24 academic year at Pabna University of Science and Technology.
Addressing the students, Dr. Ali Riaz said, “Through student movements and public uprisings, we have achieved a better environment today. Talent, hard work, dedication, and sincerity have brought all of you here.
However, success cannot be achieved alone; it requires collective effort. We must always acknowledge those working behind the scenes, without whom we wouldn’t be here. Gratitude toward them is essential.
If you fail to recognise their contributions, success becomes a mere personal celebration rather than a service to the nation.”
He further urged students to work together for progress. “You are the future leaders of this country. You must advance through competition in talent, hard work, and knowledge.
Competition will drive you to gain more knowledge. However, knowledge that remains confined to individual thinking is of little use to state-building.”
Dr. Ali Riaz stressed the importance of incorporating new knowledge and innovative thinking. “We must embrace new knowledge and move forward with fresh ideas.
When developing scientific and technological innovations, we must consider whether they align with our country’s environmental needs.
Any technology that does not safeguard the environment is unsuitable for our people. If we fail to protect life and nature, we cannot protect Bangladesh.”
He also highlighted the need for empathy and social responsibility. “The knowledge you gain must be shared with compassion. You must cultivate empathy for the underprivileged.
University education is about fostering free thought. Engage in intellectual pursuits, whether through reading newspapers, articles, or other sources. Learning should not be limited to academic institutions; knowledge can also be gained from those who have never attended formal education.”
The event began at 10:30 AM with a recitation from the Quran and the national anthem. A one-minute silence was observed in memory of the martyrs of the July-August revolution, followed by prayers for the deceased and the injured.
The ceremony was presided over by Dr. S.M. Abdul Awal, Vice-Chancellor of Pabna University of Science and Technology. Special guests included Dr. Md. Anwarul Azim Akand, Vice-Chancellor of Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University; Professor Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah, Vice-Chancellor of Islamic University, Kushtia; and Dr. S.M. Abdur Razzak, Vice-Chancellor of Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology.
