Professor Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Adviser to the Prime Minister on the Ministries of Finance and Planning, attended as the chief guest at the 5th AGM and reunion of the DU Chemistry Alumni Association today. Photo: DU

DHAKA, April 18, 2026 (BSS) - Adviser to the Prime Minister on the ministries of Finance and Planning Professor Dr. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir today called for transforming Dhaka University (DU) into a research-oriented institution.

He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at the 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and reunion of the Dhaka University Chemistry Alumni Association held at the Teachers Student Centre (TSC) auditorium of the university, organized by the DU Chemistry Alumni Association. 

In his speech, Dr. Titumir stressed the importance of modernizing the education system through skills development and innovation to groom competent citizens.

He also emphasized strengthening academia-industry collaboration to build DU into a research-driven institution.

In this regard, he assured all possible support from the government. Urging unity among alumni, he called for avoiding divisive politics and working collectively to enhance excellence in education and research.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A.B.M. Obaidul Islam attended as the guest of honour, said a press release.

Chaired by Professor Dr. Farida Begum, Chairperson of the Chemistry Department and President of the Alumni Association, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Abdus Salam, Chairman of the Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR) Dr. Samina Ahmed, and Dean of the Faculty of Science Professor Dr. Md. Mofazzal Hossain spoke as special guests. 

General Secretary of the Alumni Association Professor Dr. Md. Aftab Ali Sheikh delivered the vote of thanks. Professor Dr. Farhana Khanam Ferdousi and Associate Professor Md. Kamrul Hasan conducted the event.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A.B.M. Obaidul Islam described the Chemistry Department as one of the most prestigious and important departments of the university. 

He urged alumni to come forward for its development and the welfare of students, including providing scholarships to financially disadvantaged learners.

He also highlighted the need to reduce formalities, strengthen academia-industry linkages, and expand internship opportunities for students. 

Alongside government funding, he called on alumni to contribute to advancing research and to ensure that chemistry education and research benefit the general public through collaborative efforts.

Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Abdus Salam said all stakeholders must work together to improve the university’s standing in international rankings. He emphasized updating all academic data online to achieve this goal.

At the event, six distinguished alumni were honoured. They are- Md. Monirul Haque Chowdhury, MP, retired Professor Dr. A.M. Shafiqul Alam, retired Professor Dr. Farida Akhter, retired Professor Dr. Altaf Hossain, retired Professor Dr. Nishat Ahmed Pasha, and retired Professor Dr. Mahtab Uddin Ahmed.