Adviser Farida Akhtar today spoke at the 3rd convocation of Bangladesh University (BU) at Senaprangan convention hall of Dhaka Cantonment. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Jan 18, 2026 (BSS)- Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar today called upon students to develop responsible behaviour, make conscious decisions, and cultivate tolerant leadership.

Future administrators, teachers, doctors, and policymakers will emerge from the student community, so they must become capable as the architects of the nation, she added.

The adviser made the remarks while addressing the 3rd convocation of Bangladesh University (BU) at Senaprangan convention hall of Dhaka Cantonment today.

Mentioning that the country’s education system is being affected due to political divisions and lack of tolerance, she said that students must play an important role in overcoming this crisis.

She added that in 2024, the younger generation stood against injustice and oppression, presenting the country in a new light on the global stage. However, individual change alone is not enough; institutional reforms are essential for genuine transformation.

Referring to the upcoming national election, Farida Akhtar said youth must participate not only in forming the government but also in shaping policies and structures of state governance.

She called upon students to cast “Yes” vote in the upcoming referendum to implement the reforms and demand appeared at mass uprising.

Urging youth to be health-conscious, the adviser said that smoking and tobacco products are major causes of non-communicable diseases. Without waiting for law enforcement, individuals must exercise self-control to keep themselves and society tobacco-free, she added.

A total of 5,903 students, 5,224 undergraduate and 679 postgraduate, were awarded degrees at the convocation.

Chancellor’s Gold Medals were awarded to Khalilur Rahman, while Nusrat Kabir Brishti received the Kazi Azhar Ali Gold Medal. Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medals and Dean’s Awards were also presented.

Speaking as the convocation speaker UGC Chairman Professor Dr. SMA Faiz said as educated and enlightened individuals, students have the responsibility to deeply understand the difference between right and wrong.

Bangladesh University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Jahangir Alam and Treasurer Sajed-ul-Islam, among others, also spoke.