Dhaka, February 25 – BRAC University held its 16th convocation at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in Purbachal, Dhaka. The event was centered around the theme 'Excellence in You,' celebrating the achievements of graduating students while acknowledging their academic excellence and creativity.

This year, BRAC University awarded degrees to 4,829 graduates. Among them, two students received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal, while 28 students were honored with the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal. The Chancellor’s Gold Medals were presented by Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud, Advisor to the Ministry of Education, while the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medals were awarded by BRAC University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Syed Farhat Anwar.

The convocation featured an inspiring address by the keynote speaker, Oscar-winning filmmaker and journalist Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. In her speech, she encouraged graduates to stay true to their beliefs and listen to their inner voice. She emphasized the importance of learning from failures, stating that setbacks often pave the way for success. According to her, strengthening democracy requires listening to diverse voices and fearlessly advocating for justice. She also stressed the necessity of courage in self-expression.

The valedictorian speech was delivered by Chancellor’s Gold Medal recipient Shihab Muhtasim. He highlighted the significance of finding joy in one’s work, emphasizing that small changes in perspective can have a profound impact. He urged graduates to continuously strive for self-improvement and to uphold the values of BRAC University throughout their lives.

Among the distinguished guests was Tamara Hasan Abed, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of BRAC University. She underscored the importance of ethical leadership and compassion in driving sustainable change. She encouraged graduates to go beyond material aspirations and contribute to the creation of new pathways for the Global South.

In his address, Education Advisor Professor Wahiduddin Mahmud praised BRAC University students for their active role in last August’s student movement, noting that private university students are not solely career-driven but also contribute to social causes. He urged graduates to perform their responsibilities with integrity and make a positive impact on society. He advised them not to be guided solely by financial gains or reputation when choosing a profession but to pursue careers that bring them joy. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ethical values, asserting that no nation can truly progress if its moral foundation is weak.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Farhat Anwar spoke about embracing change as a natural process essential for personal and intellectual growth. He noted that while major transformations take time, maintaining a humane perspective ensures that these changes ultimately benefit society.

The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Sadia Hamid Kazi, Chair of the Convocation Committee and Chairperson of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.

This year’s convocation received sponsorship from Pubali Bank, with MM Ispahani Limited serving as the hot beverage partner.

BRAC University is committed to becoming one of the leading institutions in the Global South. It aims to equip students with the leadership skills necessary to excel in their academic pursuits while developing practical knowledge, confidence, and ethical responsibility. Graduates of BRAC University continue to uphold values of integrity and empathy, working toward positive societal transformation.