Freshers' Orientation was held at Department of Finance, University of Dhaka
The Department of Finance at the University of Dhaka recently celebrated a significant milestone as it opened its doors to the newly admitted 32nd batch of undergraduate students. The orientation program, held at the Faculty of Business Studies, was more than just a formal induction; it was a powerful bridge connecting the department’s storied legacy with the aspirations of its newest members.
The ceremony commenced with a soulful recitation from the Holy Quran by the Department Chairman, Prof. Dr. H. M. Mosarof Hossain, followed by a documentary chronicling the department’s evolution, achievements, and its pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh's financial landscape.
The event was graced by distinguished alumni whose presence served as a living testament to the department's impact. Mr. Ali Hossain Prodhania, Chairman of NRBC Bank PLC, delivered a nostalgic and stirring speech. Reminiscing about his own orientation in the same department exactly 46 years ago, he noted how Finance graduates have consistently ascended to leadership positions. "Our alumni dominate the workforce in regulatory bodies like the BSEC and Bangladesh Bank, as well as in the Dhaka Stock Exchange and major commercial banks," he remarked, urging the freshers to leverage the skills they will earn here to dream big and eventually take over these heights.
Ms. Prawma Tapashi Khan, Country Manager of ACCA Bangladesh, shared her own "homecoming" story, reflecting on her 37-year journey from a Finance student to a national industry leader. Describing her career as "non-linear," she credited the discipline and diligence instilled by the department for her success—from pioneering work in the bond market to multi-disciplinary leadership. In a forward-looking message, she noted that while average competency is now matched by Artificial Intelligence, students must use AI as a leverage to become "above-average" or "superior" performers in the modern world.
Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Mahmood Osman Imam, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, emphasized that the faculty’s primary goal is to provide the world's best business training. He encouraged students to explore the vast facilities of the university to complement their academic rigor.
Prof. Dr. H. M. Mosarof Hossain, in his welcoming address, reminded students that the industry views Finance graduates as "extraordinary." However, he balanced this pride with a call for accountability. "Be kind, be conscientious in your communication, and be accountable for your own education," he advised, stressing the importance of maintaining the department’s standard of excellence.
In a candid and deeply insightful session, Supernumerary Professor Dr. M. Masud Rahman shared lessons from his tenure since joining the department in 1977. He cautioned students against the "Admission Trap"—the belief that qualifying for Dhaka University is the final goal.
"I have seen 'Golden' students leave without a certificate because they became indifferent after admission," he warned.
He highlighted that Finance is a globally challenging discipline, more demanding than many realize, requiring a blend of mathematics, accounting, and conceptual clarity. He urged students to prioritize health and stay engaged with the university’s support systems, such as the Counseling and Guidance Center and the library, noting that academic success requires more than just intelligence—it requires presence and persistence.
The 32nd Batch found its voice through Nasif Ahmed Labib, who spoke of the mixture of "excitement, nervousness, and ambition" felt by his peers. He called for a culture of kindness, hoping the batch would make the university proud. Similarly, SK Tarannum Binte Rashid shared her relief at finding a sense of belonging so quickly, transforming her initial fear of the unknown into a celebration of new friendships and shared perspectives.
The technical session provided the freshers with their "roadmap." Mr. Hussain Ahmed Enamul Huda, Student Counselor, urged students to treat the BBA Handbook as their "Bible" for the next four years. Mr. Mohd. Anisul Islam, IT Director, provided essential instructions on institutional email usage, while Dr. Sheikh Tanzila Deepty, Batch Coordinator, offered practical insights into the undergraduate journey.
The session also featured valuable reflections from Dr. Samia Sultana Tani and Professor Shabnaz Amin Auditi, before Ms. Nusrat Khan, BBA Program Director, concluded the first session with a vote of thanks.
As the program drew to a close over refreshments, the atmosphere was one of profound encouragement. For the BBA 32nd Batch, the journey has just begun, supported by a department that honors its past while fiercely preparing its students for the future.