NSU Champions Safer Campuses with Two-Day Faculty Training on Gender Equity and Harassment Awareness

 

DHAKA, 7 May 2026 – Moving decisively to reinforce its commitment to a safe, fair, and welcoming academic environment, North South University (NSU) successfully conducted a two-day faculty workshop on 5–6 May 2026.

The training, titled “Fostering Respectful Workplaces: Awareness of Sexual Harassment and Gender Equity,” centered on heightening systemic awareness and building an inclusive professional culture.

The initiative was spearheaded by NSU’s Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). Dr. Halimur R. Khan, Director of IQAC, launched the proceedings with a welcome speech where he firmly restated the university’s uncompromising zero-tolerance policy regarding any form of discrimination or harassment.

Dr. Khan underscored that this workshop represents the first step in a scheduled, recurring series of sensitization and skill-building programs dedicated to maintaining a secure campus climate.

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Leadership Voices on Ethics and Accountability

The workshop series was officially inaugurated by NSU’s top leadership, featuring:

• Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor

• Professor Dr. Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor

• Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer

During the launch, Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury called upon the university's educators to actively engage in these structural developments, emphasizing that faculty involvement is vital to driving a positive academic culture.

Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nasar U. Ahmed addressed attendees on the necessity of sustained organizational effort, noting that long-term vigilance is key to preserving ethical standards and gender equity across the institution.

Reflecting on the human element of policy implementation, Treasurer Professor Abdur Rob Khan shared:

“A respectful workplace is not created through policies alone. It is created through everyday actions—through how we speak, how we behave, how we respond to others, and how we uphold the dignity of those around us.”

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Experiential Learning and Key Takeaways

The training modules were co-facilitated by Dr. Nova Ahmed, Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) at NSU, and Dr. Abantee Harun, Assistant Professor at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) and prominent social activist.

Moving beyond theoretical instruction, the facilitators guided the faculty through interactive group assignments, practical presentations, and real-life case studies. The curriculum focused on:

• Identifying and addressing sexual harassment

• Promoting structural gender equity

• Maintaining boundaries of professional ethics

• Collaborative strategies for fostering mutual respect

Both productive days concluded with an official appreciation ceremony, during which honorary crests were awarded to Professor Nova Ahmed on day one and Professor Abantee Harun on day two for guiding the sessions.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 5/16/2026 11:19:00 PM

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NSU and ILO Advance National Safety Standards Through New OSH Professional Course

 

DHAKA — In a major step toward enhancing industrial safety in Bangladesh, the EHS+ Center of North South University (NSU), supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), hosted a comprehensive consultation on May 4, 2026. 

The session aimed to refine the "Comprehensive Certificate Course on Occupational Safety and Health," a flagship educational project designed for the nation’s next generation of engineers, architects, and industry practitioners.

High-Level Institutional Alignment

The event featured Professor Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NSU, and Mr. Arif Ahmed Khan, Additional Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments (DIFE), who both emphasized the critical role of specialized education in preventing workplace accidents.

Representing the ILO, Mr. Neeran Ramjuthan (Programme Manager, LAWC Cluster) lauded NSU’s leadership in the project. The initiative is a key component of the Advancing Decent Work in Bangladesh project, a collaborative effort funded by Canada and the Team Europe Initiative (including Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden).

Collaborative Curriculum Development

A distinguished panel of experts from diverse sectors provided feedback on the proposed curriculum. Participants included:

• Global Partners: Diplomatic and development representatives from the EU, UK, Canada, Sweden, and the Netherlands.

• Technical Experts: Academics from BUET, MIST, and BRAC University.

• Industrial Bodies: Representatives from BKMEA, BEF, Epyllion Group, and various national trade unions.

The course framework, presented by Dr. Mahmud A. Shareef and Mr. Shariar Iqbal Raj, seeks to modernize safety training by addressing contemporary industrial risks.

Key Strategic Outcomes

The consultation yielded several vital recommendations to ensure the course meets international benchmarks:

• Inclusion of Health Metrics: Increasing focus on occupational diseases alongside physical safety.

• Program Depth: Lengthening the training duration to facilitate advanced learning outcomes.

• Accessibility: Streamlining course delivery to ensure it reaches a broad professional audience across Bangladesh.

The program concluded with a consensus on the path forward, marking a significant milestone in the shared mission of NSU and the ILO to foster a safer, more resilient industrial landscape in Bangladesh.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 5/12/2026 11:11:00 PM

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Bangladesh: GST Admission Tests for 20 Universities Begin Nationwide Today

The much-anticipated GST (General, Science, and Technology) cluster admission tests for the 2025–26 academic session have officially commenced today (Friday), marking a crucial step for thousands of university hopefuls across Bangladesh.

The examination process began with the Unit-C (Business Studies) test, held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at designated centers nationwide. The centralized admission system, covering 20 public universities, continues to attract a large number of candidates each year.

Huge Turnout of Applicants

According to official data, a total of 284,480 students have applied for around 13,500 seats, making the competition highly intense. For today’s Unit-C exam alone, more than 25,000 candidates are taking part.

The overall unit-wise breakdown shows:

• Unit-A (Science): 166,162 applicants
• Unit-B (Humanities): 93,102 applicants
• Unit-C (Business Studies): 25,216 applicants

Authorities have also continued the opportunity for second-time applicants, allowing previous HSC candidates to sit for the exams alongside fresh examinees.

Exam System and Marking Rules

The GST admission tests are being conducted under a uniform MCQ format. Each exam carries 100 marks, with a minimum pass mark of 30.

A negative marking system is also in place, where 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer, adding an extra layer of challenge for candidates.

Only those who pass will be eligible to apply for subject allocation in participating universities, based on merit and institutional criteria.

Upcoming Exam Schedule

Candidates appearing in the remaining units should take note of the following dates:

• Unit-B (Humanities): April 3, 2026
• Unit-A (Science): April 10, 2026
• Architecture Practical (Drawing): April 10, 2026 (afternoon session)

Tight Security and Support Measures

To manage the large number of students and guardians, authorities have implemented strict security arrangements across exam centers. Law enforcement agencies, along with BNCC and Rover Scouts, are actively assisting in maintaining discipline.

Help desks, medical support, and waiting areas have also been arranged to ensure a smooth experience for candidates.

Participating Institutions

The GST cluster includes 20 universities, featuring well-known institutions such as Islamic University (Kushtia), Jessore University of Science and Technology, and Begum Rokeya University (Rangpur), along with several newer science and technology universities.

Results to Be Published Soon

Officials informed that results for each unit will be published shortly after the exams through the official GST admission portal, allowing successful candidates to proceed with subject choice and final admission steps.

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https://thereporter24.com/news/bangladesh-gst-admission-exams-for-20-universities-begin-today-key-details-for-candidates

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/27/2026 08:12:00 AM

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Prof ABM Obaidul Islam to Lead Dhaka University, Prof Mamun Ahmed Named UGC Chairman

 

Dhaka, March 16, 2026 — The government has announced new leadership for two key institutions in Bangladesh’s higher education sector. A B M Obaidul Islam has been appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, while Mamun Ahmed will serve as the Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh.

The decision was disclosed on Monday during a press briefing at the Ministry of Education by Education and Primary & Mass Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon.

Professor Obaidul Islam currently holds the position of Vice-Chancellor at Bangladesh Open University. He is also a senior academic from the Physics Department at the University of Dhaka. With his new appointment, he will take charge of the country’s oldest and most prestigious public university.

Professor Mamun Ahmed, who is now serving as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, will take over as chairman of the University Grants Commission, the national authority responsible for supervising universities and maintaining academic standards across Bangladesh.

UGC Chairman Steps Down for Health Reasons

The leadership change at the UGC comes after its current chairman S M A Faiz submitted a request to be relieved of his duties due to health complications. In an application sent to the Secondary and Higher Education Division on March 16, he stated that he was no longer physically able to continue performing the responsibilities of the post.

Previous DU Vice-Chancellor Requested Resignation

The new appointment for Dhaka University follows a request by outgoing Vice-Chancellor Niaz Ahmed Khan to step down from the role. On February 22, he submitted an application to the President seeking to be released from his duties and to return to his earlier academic position as a Grade-1 professor in the Development Studies Department.

According to a statement issued by the university’s public relations office, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan met the education minister prior to submitting his application. His decision followed remarks he made during a press conference earlier in February.

Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan had taken office as the vice-chancellor in late August 2024, following the political changes that occurred after the 2024 Bangladesh student-led uprising, which led to the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024.

The latest appointments are expected to bring new leadership to Bangladesh’s university system at a time when reforms and modernization in higher education remain a national priority.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/16/2026 05:30:00 PM

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High Court Orders Schools to Close from February 18 Instead of March 8 for Ramadan

Dhaka, Feb 15, 2026: The High Court has directed that all government and private secondary and lower secondary schools across Bangladesh remain closed from February 18 instead of March 8 in observance of the holy month of Ramadan.

The order was issued on Sunday by a High Court bench comprising Justice Fahmida Kader and Justice Md. Asif Hasan following a preliminary hearing of a writ petition. Alongside the directive, the court also issued a rule seeking clarification on the matter.

The writ petition was filed on January 20 by Supreme Court lawyer Md. Ilias Ali Mondal. Senior advocate AKM Fayez and Ilias Ali Mondal represented the petitioner during the hearing. Deputy Attorney General Muhammad Shafikur Rahman and Assistant Attorney General Mohiuddin Md. Hanif appeared on behalf of the state.

Speaking after the hearing, Ilias Ali Mondal said two separate notices had been issued regarding Ramadan holidays. One circular stated that MPO-listed and Ebtedayee madrasas would remain closed from February 15 for the entire month of Ramadan. However, a separate notice concerning secondary schools indicated that their holiday would begin on March 8.

He argued that both circulars were issued by the same ministry, creating what he described as a discriminatory situation. The High Court, after reviewing the petition, ruled that secondary schools should also remain closed from February 18, ensuring that they observe the full Ramadan period in the same manner as madrasas.

Earlier, the Directorate of Madrasa Education published a draft holiday schedule for 2026 stating that MPO-listed and Ebtedayee madrasas would remain closed from February 15 to March 26. The holidays cover Ramadan, Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day (February 21), Independence and National Day (March 26), Shab-e-Qadr (March 17), Jumu’atul Wida (March 20), and Eid-ul-Fitr (March 21).

Separately, on December 28 last year, the Secondary and Higher Education Division under the Ministry of Education issued the 2026 academic calendar for secondary and lower secondary schools. According to that schedule, holidays for Ramadan and related occasions were set to begin on March 8 and continue until March 26.

The writ petition argued that around 98 percent of Bangladesh’s population is Muslim and cited constitutional provisions, including Article 2A declaring Islam as the state religion and Article 31 regarding lawful authority. It maintained that since independence, educational institutions have traditionally remained closed during Ramadan, and that keeping primary and secondary schools open during the month would be inconsistent with established practice and constitutional principles.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 2/15/2026 08:07:00 PM

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British Columbia School Shooting Leaves 10 Dead, Community in Shock

Feb 11, 2026: Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia – A deadly shooting at a high school in the small northern community of Tumbler Ridge has left at least 10 people dead, including the suspected gunman, according to Canadian authorities.

The violence unfolded Tuesday afternoon at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, where police responded to reports of an active shooter around 1:20 p.m.

local time. Officers arriving at the scene discovered multiple victims inside the school building, along with an individual believed to be responsible for the attack. The suspect was found deceased from what authorities described as an apparent self-inflicted injury.

Officials have confirmed that several of the victims were located inside the school, while two others were later discovered at a nearby residence believed to be connected to the incident. Investigators have not yet clarified the relationship between the school and the home.

It is not immediately clear whether the victims at the school were students, staff members, or a combination of both. Authorities have not released names or ages as families are being notified.

Injuries and Emergency Response

In addition to the fatalities, police reported that two individuals were airlifted to hospital with serious injuries, and another victim died while being transported for medical care. Around 25 others sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at a local medical facility.

Superintendent Ken Floyd of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) described the situation as fast-moving and highly complex. He commended first responders, school officials, and community members for their cooperation during the emergency response.

“All remaining students and staff were safely evacuated,” police confirmed, adding that there is no ongoing threat to the public and no indication of additional suspects.

Schools Closed, Investigation Continues

The Peace River South School District announced that both Tumbler Ridge Secondary School and Tumbler Ridge Elementary School will remain closed for the rest of the week. Counseling and support services are being arranged for students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy.

Provincial officials said additional emergency resources were dispatched from neighboring areas to assist local law enforcement. Community leaders urged residents to rely on official updates and follow police guidance.

Investigators are now working to determine the motive behind the attack and to establish how the school and residential locations are connected.

A Community Grieves

The shooting has deeply shaken the remote town of Tumbler Ridge, with leaders describing it as one of the most devastating incidents in the province’s recent history. Mental health professionals are being deployed to provide support as families and residents begin to process the tragedy.

Authorities say more details will be released as the investigation progresses.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 2/11/2026 12:30:00 PM

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Mobile Banking Curbs Leave Patients Stranded, Credit Bills Unpaid, Tuition Fees in Jeopardy

Dhaka, February 9, 2026 — Nationwide restrictions on mobile financial services (MFS) and internet banking, imposed ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election, have created widespread financial disruption, particularly affecting the poor and middle-class families who rely on digital transactions for daily survival.

On Monday, field visits across Dhaka and several districts revealed that most mobile banking agent outlets remained closed, a situation set to continue until midnight on February 12. Citizens report being unable to access critical funds for healthcare, education, and essential living expenses.

Income Loss Hits Small Traders and Agents

From urban centers to rural villages, many earn their livelihood through mobile banking operations. Daily wage earners, small traders, and MFS agents have been left without income for days, while their customers are unable to access cash or complete essential transactions.

Medical Emergencies Stalled

The restrictions have had life-threatening consequences for families dealing with critical illnesses. Patients needing immediate funds for cancer treatment, kidney dialysis, or heart care are facing delays.

Sajib Ahmed, a college student from Kushtia, said: “I came to Dhaka with some money to start my father’s cancer treatment. My family sold a small piece of land and collected Tk 4 lakh, but they cannot transfer it to me because mobile banking is blocked. My father’s treatment cannot wait.”

Even short delays, families say, can have serious consequences when urgent medical care is required.

Household Expenses and Education in Limbo

Many families living in cities rely on mobile transfers to pay tuition fees, school expenses, and house rent. Guardians report being at risk of eviction or having their children miss school due to the restrictions, despite having funds ready in their accounts.

Credit Card Payments Blocked

Salaried individuals relying on mobile banking to pay credit card bills are also affected. Md Haider Ali, a Dhaka-based service holder, said:

“I deposited money into my mobile wallet to pay my American Express bill by the 12th. Suddenly, I couldn’t transfer or withdraw funds. Now I will be fined for no fault of mine.”

No Response from Bangladesh Bank

Attempts to reach Bangladesh Bank officials for comment were unsuccessful. The contact number listed on the central bank’s website (880255665001) was found inaccessible and returned a recorded response stating “wrong number.” A senior official attached to the Finance Advisor of the interim government said:

“We do not deal with this issue. Please contact the Bangladesh Bank in this regard.”

Background: Election-Period Restrictions

Bangladesh Bank imposed the restrictions to prevent fund misuse during the election. Key measures include:

# MFS transfers capped at Tk 1,000 per transaction, Tk 10,000 per day.

# Person-to-person internet banking transfers suspended.

# Merchant payments and utility bills remain operational.

# Banks and MFS providers must monitor transactions and report suspicious activity.

While the move aims to protect election integrity, experts and citizens warn that it comes at the cost of ordinary people’s access to essential financial services, including medical payments, school fees, and household bills.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 2/09/2026 06:37:00 PM

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NSU Explores the Future of Architecture with AI

Dhaka, Feb 2, 2026:North South University’s Department of Architecture hosted a panel discussion titled “Architecture: In the Era of Advanced Technology 1.0” on 28 February 2026, focusing on how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping architectural practice and education.

The session brought together leading academics and professionals, including Prof. Dr. Mohammed Mahbubur Rahman, Associate Professor Shahriar Iqbal Raj, Associate Professor Dr. Shafin Rahman, Dr. Golam Mohammad Mohiuddin, and Lecturer A K M Saleh Ahmed Anik. The discussion was moderated by Prof. Mujtaba Ahsan of the Department of Architecture at NSU.

Opening the discussion, Prof. Mujtaba Ahsan invited panelists to reflect on how architecture may incorporate AI in the near future.

Prof. Dr. Mohammed Mahbubur Rahman responded by emphasizing the continued relevance of human-centered design and cultural sensitivity.

Referring to Vitruvius’ principles of function, structure, and beauty, he argued that while technology can assist design processes, architecture ultimately depends on human perception, experience, and aesthetic judgment.

Lecturer A K M Saleh Ahmed Anik highlighted the historical relationship between technological tools and human intelligence, citing predictions about the evolution of artificial intelligence.

He stressed the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and lifelong learning, while also raising concerns about the environmental and ethical implications of large-scale AI development.

Dr. Golam Mohammad Mohiuddin shared a case study demonstrating how AI was used to produce an architectural animation within a short timeframe.

While acknowledging AI’s efficiency, he cautioned that architects must maintain control over creative decision-making and questioned whether unbuilt, AI-generated outputs can be fully considered architecture.

Providing technical context, Associate Professor Dr. Shafin Rahman explained the current limitations of AI, noting that most systems today operate as Artificial Narrow Intelligence.

He warned that rapid progress toward more advanced forms of AI could pose ethical challenges and emphasized the need for localized models and interdisciplinary collaboration, referencing NSU’s Machine Intelligence Lab.

Associate Professor Shahriar Iqbal Raj, Chair of the Department of Architecture, discussed the profession’s transition from traditional to digitally driven practices.

He stressed the need for collaboration between architects and programmers and proposed introducing academic training in prompt engineering to better prepare students for future practice.

Concluding the session, Prof. Mujtaba Ahsan noted that continuous learning has become essential in today’s professional landscape, reinforcing the panel’s shared view that adaptability and collaboration will define the future of architecture in the age of advanced technology.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 2/02/2026 12:41:00 AM

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NSU Architecture Graduates Honoured at 26th Convocation Ceremony

North South University (NSU) marked a major academic occasion with the successful holding of its 26th Convocation on January 7, 2026, at the university campus, celebrating the achievements of thousands of graduating students.

The ceremony was chaired by Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, Honourable Adviser to the Ministry of Education of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

The convocation address was delivered by Professor SMA Faiz, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, while Mohammad Anwar Hossen, Member of the UGC, attended the event as a special guest.

A total of 3,322 undergraduate and postgraduate students received their degrees at the convocation. Among them, the Department of Architecture celebrated the graduation of 36 students, highlighting the department’s sustained emphasis on academic quality and professional standards.

Academic distinctions featured prominently among the architecture graduates, with five students earning Cum Laude honours, four achieving Magna Cum Laude, and one student receiving the prestigious Summa Cum Laude distinction.

Mr. Nahin Iqbal Chowdhury emerged as the top performer in the Department of Architecture, securing the highest CGPA and being awarded Summa Cum Laude in recognition of his exceptional academic achievement.

The convocation ceremony was attended by parents and family members of the graduates, many of whom expressed appreciation for NSU’s supportive academic environment and learning facilities.

Special recognition was extended to Professor Dr. Shazzad Hosain, Dean of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, along with Shahriar Iqbal Raj, Chair of the Department of Architecture, and faculty members Professor Dr. Saiful Islam, Professor Dr. Sharif Shams Imon, and Professor Mujtaba Ahsan, who were present at the event and took part in awarding certificates to the graduates.

The accomplishments of the Department of Architecture at NSU’s 26th Convocation reaffirm the university’s commitment to nurturing future architects equipped with strong academic foundations, ethical values, and the professional competence required to contribute meaningfully to the built environment in Bangladesh and beyond.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 1/09/2026 11:00:00 AM

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Sharifa-Tofiz Foundation Pushes for Inclusive Socioeconomic Change in Bangladesh

Staff Correspondent

Dhaka, Jan 8, 2026: The Sharifa-Tofiz Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 2024, has emerged as a dedicated force for social change in rural Bangladesh by expanding access to education, empowering women, and supporting under-resourced families.

Recently, the chief patrons of the foundation travelled from the United States to Bangladesh to strengthen and oversee charitable activities in remote areas of Shailkupa upazila in Jhenaidah district.

During their visit, the patrons visited two primary schools where they distributed scholarships among top-performing students from classes one to five. Alongside scholarships, essential educational materials were also handed out to support the children’s learning needs.

The above are recipients of Sharifa-Tofiz Foundation scholarships from Bashantapur Government Primary School at Shailkupa in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh.

A festive atmosphere prevailed on the school premises as Upazila Primary Education Officer Bishwajit Saha and Upazila Assistant Primary Education Officer Mazedur Rahman, guardians, headmasters from neighbouring institutions, and local social dignitaries gathered to take part in the programme, lending it added significance and warmth.

Reflecting its commitment to gender equality and social inclusion, the foundation’s patrons also distributed financial assistance among vulnerable women in the upazila, aiming to help integrate them into the social and economic mainstream.

The above are recipients of Sharifa-Tofiz Foundation scholarships from Khulna Bazar Government Primary School at Shailkupa in Jhenaidah, Bangladesh.

Rooted in community-centered and sustainable initiatives, the foundation operates on a simple but powerful belief: opportunity should never be determined by where a person is born.

Named in honour of Sharifa and Tofiz—whose lives embodied generosity, wisdom, and a deep respect for education—the foundation carries forward their legacy by addressing long-standing inequalities in rural communities.

Across these communities, many talented students struggle to remain in school, women face persistent barriers to financial independence, and families often lack access to basic resources. Through targeted support, mentorship, and skill-building, the foundation seeks to bridge these gaps and unlock human potential.

Education remains at the heart of the foundation’s work. Its Scholarship for Academic Excellence programme recognises high-achieving students from low-income rural backgrounds, providing tuition assistance, educational materials, and mentorship.

These scholarships are awarded through community gatherings that foster connection, encouragement, and shared purpose, reinforcing the value of education within families and villages.

Alongside education, the foundation is steadily expanding its focus on women’s empowerment. In many rural areas, women remain underrepresented in the workforce and underserved in social and economic opportunities.

The foundation is preparing initiatives that include vocational training, educational workshops, and micro-level financial support to help women build independent and sustainable livelihoods. New programmes in women’s empowerment and family support are set to be launched soon.

“Family and community support form the third pillar of the foundation’s mission. From providing school supplies to offering emergency assistance, the organization stands beside families facing financial hardship.

Over the long term, it aims to develop programmes that promote sustainable livelihoods, public health awareness, and localized community infrastructure, ensuring resilience beyond short-term aid,” the foundation said while outlining its objectives.

The foundation is led by a diverse and committed leadership team. President and Co-Founder Dr. Mizan Rahman, an engineering leader in the medtech industry and a former faculty member of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), brings decades of research and leadership experience.

Now based in California, Dr. Rahman co-founded the organization to honour his parents’ legacy by creating meaningful opportunities for underserved communities in Bangladesh.

Secretary and Co-Founder Mounia Rahman, a Cognitive Science student at Occidental College, contributes a youth-driven perspective, focusing on initiatives that inspire students—particularly young girls growing up in rural areas.

Executive Director Dr. Salim Kaiser, who also serves as Director of the Lab and Student Research Innovation Center at the International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT), provides strategic and academic leadership, drawing on his extensive background in engineering education and applied research.

The foundation also benefits from the guidance of its Chief Patron and Advisor, Dr. Sharmin Jahan, a California-based physician specialising in child neuropsychiatry, whose expertise strengthens programmes related to education, mental health, and women’s advancement.

The Sharifa-Tofiz Foundation acknowledges that its impact would not be possible without strong local partnerships.

Teachers and volunteers from Bashantapur Primary School, Khulna Bazar Primary School, and surrounding villages play a crucial role by guiding students, organising scholarship ceremonies, and supporting workshops and family assistance activities.

Their local leadership, generosity, and dedication ensure that support reaches the families and children who need it most, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to lasting, community-driven change in rural Bangladesh.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 1/08/2026 11:40:00 PM

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Shibir-Backed Panel Secures Key Posts in First JnUCSU Election

Md Riazul Islam (Vice-President) and Abdul Alim Arif (General Secretary) following their victory in the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union election.

Campus Correspondent

Bangladesh, Jan 8, 2026: Candidates supported by Islami Chhatra Shibir have emerged victorious in the first-ever election of the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU), winning the three most influential positions — vice-president (VP), general secretary (GS), and assistant general secretary (AGS).

According to the final results announced by the Election Commission late Wednesday night, Md Riazul Islam of the Shibir-backed Odomyo Jobian Oikya panel was elected vice-president, receiving 5,564 votes. His closest competitor, AKM Rakib from the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD)-supported Oikyoboddho Nirvik Jobian panel, secured 4,688 votes.

In the race for the general secretary post, Shibir-backed candidate Abdul Alim Arif won with 5,470 votes, defeating JCD-backed contender Khadijatul Kubra, who received 2,203 votes. The margin of victory in this contest exceeded three thousand votes.

The assistant general secretary position was also claimed by the Shibir-supported panel, with Masud Rana obtaining 5,002 votes. His rival, BM Atikur Rahman Tanzil of the JCD-backed panel, secured 3,868 votes.

Election officials said the results were compiled from all 38 polling centres. Although voting took place on Tuesday, the counting process faced delays due to technical issues, leading to a temporary suspension for several hours. The counting resumed after midnight following system verification.

Election Commissioner Professor Dr Kaniz Fatema Kakolee stated that both manual and digital methods were used to verify the results to ensure transparency and accuracy before the final announcement.

With victories in the top three posts, the Shibir-backed panel went on to secure 15 of the 21 seats in the central students’ union. JCD-backed candidates won four posts, while one independent candidate was elected as a member.

Reacting to his win, vice-president-elect Md Riazul Islam said the outcome reflected strong student support and pledged to work for student welfare. General secretary-elect Abdul Alim Arif noted that the absence of a central students’ union for nearly two decades had discouraged students and said the new body would work inclusively for campus development.

Celebrations were reported on campus following the announcement of results, while several defeated candidates were unavailable for immediate comment.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 1/08/2026 09:03:00 AM

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Prof Mahbubur Rahman Joins Dept of Architecture at NSU

Dhaka, January 6, 2026

The Department of Architecture at North South University (NSU) is pleased to announce that Prof. Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, an eminent architect, academician, and administrator, has joined the department, further strengthening its academic and professional leadership.

Prof. Dr. Rahman is widely recognized for his significant contributions to architectural education, research, professional practice, and the development of national policy. Prior to joining NSU, he served as the Pro Vice Chancellor of Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST) and also held the position of Acting Vice Chancellor in 2024.

The Department of Architecture at North South University began its academic journey in 2004 under the visionary guidance of Prof. Dr. Rahman, at a time when the department was operating from NSU’s former Banani campus. During this formative phase, he served as Chairman of the Department and played a pivotal role in shaping its academic framework, institutional structure, and long-term vision.

Prof. Dr. Rahman, a Commonwealth Scholar and Robert McNamara Fellow, started teaching at BUET in 1985. His academic career spanning four decades has taken him to several countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. This has enabled Prof. Dr. Rahman to gain extensive experience in curriculum development, accreditation, and quality assurance in higher education.

A prolific researcher and scholar, he has published more than 165 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, and has authored or edited nine books. His acclaimed publication, City of an Architect, which documents and critically examines Dhaka’s architectural heritage, received the prestigious Baku Book Prize in 2023.

The Department of Architecture at North South University warmly welcomes Prof. Dr. Mahbubur Rahman and looks forward to benefiting from his extensive experience, leadership, and continued contributions to architectural education and research.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 1/06/2026 02:41:00 PM

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Osman Hadi Shooting: Police Identify Suspect, Seek Public Assistance

Dhaka: Police have identified one suspected individual in connection with the shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prospective independent candidate in the 13th national parliamentary election.

The suspect was identified after reviewing footage from nearby CCTV cameras, according to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

In a press statement issued on Saturday, the DMP said law enforcement agencies are continuing their operation to track down those responsible for the attack.

Police have urged the public to come forward with any information related to the identified suspect, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept confidential.

The DMP provided three contact numbers for sharing information: 01320040080 (Deputy Commissioner, Motijheel Division), 01320040132 (Officer-in-Charge, Paltan Police Station), and the national emergency helpline 999.

Osman Hadi, convener of the platform Inqilab Mancha, was shot on Friday afternoon on Box Culvert Road in the capital’s Puran Paltan area, a day after the election schedule was announced.

He was initially taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital in critical condition before being transferred to Evercare Hospital for advanced treatment.

Inqilab Mancha officials said Hadi remains in a critical state and that his condition cannot be conclusively assessed until at least 48 hours have passed.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 12/13/2025 04:11:00 PM

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School Admission Lottery Results Announced for 2026 Academic Year

Dhaka, Bangladesh:
The lottery results for admission to government and private secondary schools from grades 1 to 9 for the 2026 academic year have been released. The results were published digitally on Thursday, 11 December 2025, during a ceremony held at the International Mother Language Institute.

Students can check their results online at https://gsa.teletalk.com.bd or via SMS using any Teletalk mobile phone. To check the results via SMS, users need to type: GSA Result User ID and send it to 16222.

Instructions for Selected Students

Guidelines for the admission of students selected through the digital lottery have been issued. After the lottery process, school authorities, guardians, or students can download the results using their assigned ID and password from the designated link. Once downloaded, school principals must forward the results via email to the respective district and upazila admission committee chairpersons and notify the Ministry of Education (MoE).

For the admission of selected students, the relevant admission committee will convene a meeting and follow the prescribed procedures to ensure proper enrollment.

Seat Availability

According to the Ministry of Education, there are a total of 11,93,281 seats available this year across 4,048 government and private schools. Of these, 10,72,251 seats are in 3,360 private schools, while 1,21,030 seats are allocated in 688 government schools. The admission process will be conducted centrally through the lottery system.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 12/11/2025 02:21:00 PM

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