Play store
University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Professor Dr Mamun Ahmed has urged newly admitted students of Rajshahi University (RU) to develop strong moral values, a sense of responsibility and humanity alongside academic excellence.
He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at the fresher reception for students of the 2025-26 academic year at the Kazi Nazrul Islam Auditorium on the university campus on Saturday.
Professor Mamun Ahmed said admission to a university is highly competitive and those who have secured a place at Rajshahi University are among the brightest students.
“The journey towards fulfilling your dreams and developing your talents has begun with your admission. You must continue that journey. Without dreaming, no one can fulfil their dreams. So, you must make persistent efforts to achieve your goals,” he said.
He said students had come to the university to enlighten themselves through knowledge and urged them to use their knowledge, talent and creativity to contribute to society and the country.
“The more knowledge you acquire, the richer and more fulfilling your life will become,” he said, urging students to make the best possible use of the university’s facilities and infrastructure for higher education and research.
Highlighting the importance of developing humanitarian values, the UGC chairman said education should not be limited to academic knowledge.
“Alongside acquiring knowledge, students must become people with strong human values. They should contribute to building harmony and social cohesion,” he said.
He also urged students not to lose confidence in their abilities in times of failure or disappointment, but to learn from setbacks and rise again.
On the importance of free thought and freedom of expression, Professor Mamun said universities should provide space for rational and independent thinking and expression.
“While expressing your views, you must respect the rights, dignity and opinions of others. Freedom should be practised by maintaining a balance between rights and responsibilities,” he said.
The UGC chairman encouraged students to engage in research, sports, debating, cultural activities, voluntary work, technology and innovation alongside their academic studies.
He also stressed the importance of developing communication, leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills, saying students must prepare themselves for the global job market in a rapidly changing world.
Regarding the development of Rajshahi University, he said the UGC was paying close attention to the institution’s needs.
“After reviewing the university’s five-year development plan, initiatives will be taken to meet various needs on a priority basis,” he said.
He also said initiatives were being taken to gradually transform universities across the country into smart campuses.
RU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Faridul Islam chaired the event while Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Md Abdul Alim and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Mamunur Rashid attended as special guests.
Student Adviser Professor AHM Khursheed Alam and Proctor Professor Md Mahbubur Rahman also spoke at the event.