Dr Md Ashiqur Rahman, President of the Erasmus Mundus Student and Alumni Association (EMA), completed a series of events across five institutions in Bangladesh in October 2024. He promoted Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EMJM) and other EU-funded programmes under Erasmus+, engaging over 4,000 participants, and inspiring thousands of students and faculty members.
Dr Rahman began his journey with an inspirational talk at Principal Kazi Faruky School & College on 8 October 2024, engaging with over 450 second-year Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) students. In his speech, he emphasized the boundless possibilities awaiting these young learners. "Many of them had never imagined themselves as global citizens, nor heard anything about the Erasmus+ programme, but I hope I was able to open the doors to that dream for them," he shared.
Returning to his alma mater, the University of Chittagong, on 22 October, Dr Rahman delivered a keynote talk to over 800 undergraduate and postgraduate students. Organized in collaboration with various student organizations and faculty, the session focused on “Higher Studies: What, Why, How, and When.” He shared secrets to securing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master scholarships and encouraged students to pursue their dreams abroad, overcoming fears and doubts. "The enthusiasm and curiosity of the students were overwhelming. Our students are eager to learn, and their dedication to research and education is truly inspiring," he remarked.
BBA Auditorium University of Chittagong, 22 October 2024
In his hometown of Comilla, Dr Rahman was the chief speaker at an event titled “Opportunities for Higher Studies Abroad and Secrets to Success,” organized by the Bangladesh Higher Study Network, held on 26 October 2024. Speaking to 900 students from diverse academic backgrounds, audiences from higher secondary school, undergraduate, and graduate students, he shared insights into navigating the path to higher education, mentioning the opportunities under the Erasmus+ programmes. He described the event as deeply personal and inspiring, saying, "Seeing the determination and curiosity in the eyes of my district’s youth fills me with hope for a brighter future.”
At Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) on 29 October 2024, Dr Rahman addressed over 650 students about the infinite opportunities in global higher education through the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master programme. He encouraged NSTU’s administration to further internationalize research and education. "District-level universities like NSTU hold immense potential. With the right guidance and effort, their students can achieve incredible success on the global stage," he said.
On 3 November 2024, at the International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC), Dr Rahman addressed an audience of over 1,200 students, faculty, and staff in a seminar on international higher education. His keynote focused and highlighted the opportunities under the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programme and the role of education in driving personal and societal development. He praised the students’ thirst for knowledge and determination to excel globally. “This generation’s potential is unmatched. They are ready to take on the world, and it is our duty to guide them,” he noted.
International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC), 3rd November 2024
Dr Rahman’s visit to these institutions marks a significant step in EMA’s mission to promote Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters and other European higher education opportunities to foster global connections. He reiterated their importance in equipping students with the skills and confidence to become global citizens.
The overwhelming response from students across these universities highlights the enthusiasm and ambition of Bangladesh’s next generation. Dr Rahman expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and institutions, adding, “This journey is just the beginning. Together, we can create pathways for students to achieve their dreams and contribute to a better world.”
By Dr Md Ashiqur Rahman,
EMA President
Last Updated: 3 January 2025
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