Sixty-five Bangladeshi students have been recognised with the coveted 'Top in the World' awards at the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (OCLA) 2024, held on Saturday at the Radisson Blu in Dhaka.
The event, co-hosted by the British Council and Cambridge International Education, celebrated exceptional achievements in the June 2024 Cambridge examination series.
In total, 98 Bangladeshi students received 121 awards across four categories: Top in the World, High Achievement, Top in Country, and Best Across.
The ‘Top in the World’ award honours students achieving the highest marks globally in Cambridge International examinations, including O Level, International AS & A Level, and IGCSE.
The ceremony was inaugurated by Shahin Reza, Country Manager for Cambridge International Education in Bangladesh, who highlighted the remarkable growth of Cambridge International in the country. "The increasing number of Top in the World awards this year reflects the dedication of students, teachers, and parents," he said.
Chief Guest Prof Dr SMA Faiz, Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, lauded the students for their outstanding achievements. He particularly praised the 65 students who topped the global charts in their respective subjects.
James Goldman, acting British high commissioner to Bangladesh, extended his congratulations to the awardees, emphasizing the enduring educational and cultural ties between the UK and Bangladesh. "These achievements will undoubtedly open new doors for students to contribute meaningfully to their communities," he remarked.
Rod Smith, group managing director of International Education at Cambridge, delivered a video message, while David Knox, director of Programs at the British Council Bangladesh, and Maxim Raimann, Exams Director at the British Council Bangladesh, were present to honor the students.
The event also featured inspiring speeches from Tasir Haque, a 2018 Cambridge A Level graduate now a medical doctor, and Sheikh Munkasir Ahmed Rafeed, a 2020 A Level graduate currently pursuing engineering at Buet.
A cultural performance by students from SFX Greenherald International School added vibrancy to the occasion.
With over a million students worldwide taking Cambridge International examinations annually, the awards underscore the institution's global reputation for academic excellence.
Cambridge International Education has been conducting examinations for more than 160 years, maintaining a strong presence in Bangladesh.
