University

Major General ASM Ridwanur Rahman, AWC, AFWC, PSC, G, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 17th Infantry Division and Area Commander of Sylhet, has said that university life is a new and exciting chapter — one that differs greatly from school and college life. Speaking as the chief guest at the freshers’ reception of Metropolitan University on Wednesday, he urged the newly admitted students to embrace both the joys and challenges of university life with preparedness and purpose.

“University life is not only about academic knowledge; it is a life of free and innovative thinking,” said Major General Ridwanur Rahman. “It introduces us to new ideas and new paths. With freedom comes responsibility — discipline, respect, and tolerance must be part of that freedom. We can express differences of opinion, but they must be expressed with courtesy and constructiveness.”

Encouraging students to be driven by ideals beyond personal interest, he added, “The greatest dream of university life should be to become an enlightened human being. We must move forward with the mindset of prioritizing national interest over self-interest.”

The event was presided over by Mr. Tanwir M.O. Rahman Chowdhury, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Metropolitan University. Special guests included Chairman Emeritus Dr. Toufique Rahman Chowdhury, Founder of the University; Brigadier General Kamrul Hasan; Trustee Board member Muhitul Bari Rahman; and Treasurer Professor Dr. Taher Billal Khalifa. The welcome address was delivered by Professor Ishrat Ibne Ismail, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the university, while freshman student Rahikul Haque Siddique spoke on behalf of the new students.

In his remarks, Dr. Toufique Rahman Chowdhury said, “Metropolitan University was established with the vision of providing world-class education. We are preparing our students to face global challenges. Our graduates are working with distinction in global organizations such as Google and Amazon. Our goal is not only to impart education but also to nurture humane, compassionate, and tolerant individuals.”

Among others present were Brigadier General Shafiqul Hossain, deans of various faculties, heads of departments, faculty members, officers, and students. The program began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by Abdullah Bin Masud, a student of the Business Administration Department, followed by the national anthem sung in unison. Earlier, a well-trained team from the Bangladesh National Cadet Corps (BNCC) presented a Guard of Honour to the chief guest. The event was organized with support from the Metropolitan University BNCC and Rover Scout Group.

To conclude the ceremony, the university presented a crest of honor to Major General Ridwanur Rahman in recognition of his contribution and presence at the event.