DE News Desk :
The University of Chittagong (CU) marked a historic moment today by hosting its 5th convocation, conferring degrees to 22,586 graduates in the largest ceremony of its kind in Bangladesh’s academic history.
The central playground of the university was vibrant with joy and pride as graduates, parents, faculty, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate the culmination of years of academic dedication.
Among the degree recipients were 42 PhD holders and 33 MPhil scholars, reflecting the university’s growing emphasis on advanced research and academic excellence.
Adding to the prestige of the event, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus graced the convocation as the chief guest.
A former faculty member of CU’s Economics Department, Prof. Yunus was honored with an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt) degree for his groundbreaking contributions to poverty alleviation and global peacebuilding through microfinance and social business initiatives.
In his keynote address, Prof. Yunus encouraged graduates to become architects of a new world. “We have the power to shape the world as we dream it. Do not limit your aspirations—create the future you want to live in,” he said.
Reflecting on his early days at CU and the 1974 famine that inspired the founding of Grameen Bank, he emphasized the importance of social responsibility and innovation in addressing global challenges.
The ceremony was also attended by senior education officials, university leaders, and other distinguished guests. CU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Yeahia Akhter called the convocation a “moment of pride” and expressed his hope that the graduates would carry forward the university’s legacy of knowledge, integrity, and service.
For many students, this was their first convocation experience, as the event had not been held for nearly a decade.
Emotions ran high as graduates donned caps and gowns, receiving their certificates with cheers and heartfelt applause from the audience.
Following the ceremony, Prof. Yunus visited his ancestral village in Hathazari and paid respects at his family’s gravesites, later touring key historical sites related to his early work in microcredit.
Chittagong University’s 5th convocation not only celebrated academic achievement but also served as a reminder of the powerful role education plays in transforming society and inspiring future generations.