Wins IBA’s ‘Spirit of the Competition’ Award as the Sole Representative from Bangladesh

Press Release

Presidency University’s Department of Law and Justice has earned international recognition by winning the IBA Spirit of the Competition Award at the International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition (ICCMCC) held in The Hague, Netherlands. The prestigious event, which took place from June 11 to June 18, 2025, saw participation from 88 teams representing law faculties from 45 countries around the world.

Presidency University proudly represented Bangladesh as the country’s sole participant in this high-profile international competition. The university’s four-member moot court team consisted of Syed Mahin, Mahbubur Rahman Sohag, Sonali Rajbangshi, and Dipanwita Chakma. The team was guided by Lecturer Sal Sabil Chowdhury as the coach, with Md. Rafi Ibn Masud serving as the assistant coach.

Organized at the headquarters of the International Criminal Court (ICC), the competition provided students with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in simulated proceedings of international criminal law. Participants argued complex cases on crimes against humanity, war crimes, and human rights violations, gaining hands-on experience in international legal frameworks.

This year, the International Bar Association (IBA) introduced the Spirit of the Competition Award for the first time. Presidency University was honored with this inaugural recognition, awarded for demonstrating exemplary professionalism, dedication, resilience, and the true spirit of international legal competition.

To celebrate this landmark achievement, the university hosted a “Meet the Press” event on June 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Hotel La Vinci, Monalisa Hall, in Dhaka.

Speaking at the event, Md. Didarul Islam Bhuiyan, Head of the Department of Law and Justice, expressed his pride:

“This victory is not just a personal achievement for our students—it is a historic success for legal education in Bangladesh. It proves that with proper guidance and support, our students are capable of competing at the highest global level.”

Coach Sal Sabil Chowdhury highlighted the team’s commitment and perseverance:

“Despite facing numerous obstacles, the team demonstrated unwavering resolve, hard work, and discipline throughout the competition.”

Dean of the School of Law, Prof. Md. Azharul Islam, praised the students’ efforts:

“We are immensely proud that our students have showcased their legal acumen in such a challenging and prestigious platform. This accomplishment will serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.”

The university also extended its sincere gratitude to the International Bar Association (IBA) and Leiden University for organizing and supporting the competition.

Presidency University’s Department of Law and Justice began its academic journey in Summer 2024, following formal approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC). The department focuses not only on classroom learning but also emphasizes co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to equip students for the demands of the legal profession.

To maintain academic excellence, the department enrolls only 40 students per semester, strictly adhering to UGC guidelines. It currently offers LL.B. (Honours) and LL.M. programs (both 1-year and 2-year tracks). Presently, 119 students are enrolled in the LL.B. program, while 69 students are pursuing LL.M. degrees.

All faculty members of the department are top graduates from the University of Dhaka’s Faculty of Law, ensuring the highest standard of legal education. The department is led by Prof. Md. Azharul Islam as Dean and Md. Didarul Islam Bhuiyan as Assistant Professor and Head of Department—both of whom hold LL.B. and LL.M. degrees from the University of Dhaka.

This historic achievement in such a short span has elevated the reputation of Presidency University’s law department, instilling confidence in students, faculty, and guardians alike to strive for even greater success in the future.