The 22nd convocation of the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) was held on Saturday at the university’s campus.
With the kind consent of the president and chancellor of the university, Mohammed Shahabuddin, the convocation was presided over by Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, adviser to the Ministry of Finance, who also conferred degrees upon the graduates.
Professor Dr SMA Faiz, chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, delivered a special address.
The convocation speaker was distinguished writer and recipient of the 2024 Bangla Academy Literary Award, Professor Dr Salimullah Khan.
Additionally, speeches were delivered by Nadia Anwar, chairman and founding member of AIUB’s Board of Trustees, AIUB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Saiful Islam, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Abdur Rahman.
A total of 2,547 students from various faculties were awarded undergraduate and postgraduate degrees during AIUB’s 22nd convocation.
Moreover, medals and honors were presented to outstanding and high-achieving students as follows:
- Chancellor’s Gold Medal – 3
- Summa Cum Laude (Gold) – 79
- Dr Anwarul Abedin Leadership Award – 20
- Magna Cum Laude (Silver) – 128
- Vice-Chancellor’s Award – 23
- Cum Laude (Bronze) – 39
Addressing the newly graduated students, Dr Salehuddin Ahmed congratulated them and said: "Education is the greatest tool for achieving equality. While wealth can be acquired without education, no one can take away one’s knowledge. Education and experience are irreplaceable. Graduates should first prioritize their families, then their country, and always remain compassionate towards others. The quality and dedication of teachers are of utmost importance, and I commend AIUB for achieving this standard."
Professor Dr SMA Faiz also congratulated the graduates, saying: "Anyone can judge between right and wrong, but only the enlightened minds shaped by education can make sound judgments."
Delivering the convocation speech, Professor Dr Salimullah Khan congratulated the new graduates, saying: "We must learn how to guide society towards justice, liberation, and freedom. I am delighted to know that AIUB has successfully held 22 convocations. A university is never private in nature—it belongs to society as a whole."
In her welcome speech, Nadia Anwar said: "This is not the end; it is just the beginning. This campus is your home, and we will always remain your biggest well-wishers. Wherever life takes you, AIUB will continue to encourage you, celebrate your successes, and stand by you whenever needed."
AIUB Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Saiful Islam extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates on behalf of himself and the university administration, saying: "Today, we are not just celebrating your achievements but also welcoming the bright future that awaits you. We take pride in the success of our graduates, and I am certain that the esteemed parents here also feel proud to see their children successfully complete their academic journey. In this moment of joy and success, I pray to the Almighty to guide you all on the right path and lead you toward ultimate success."
AIUB Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Abdur Rahman expressed gratitude to the students, parents, and invited guests, saying: "On behalf of AIUB, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to all students, parents, and guests whose presence today has honored this ceremony."
The convocation ceremony was also attended by AIUB’s founding members Dr Hasanul Abedin Hasan and Ishtiaque Abedin, along with all members of the Board of Trustees, the Syndicate, the Academic Council, officials from the University Grants Commission, invited guests, AIUB’s treasurer, deans, registrar, faculty members, administrative staff, students, parents, and members of the media.
