Two-day freshers' reception begins at IU today. Photo: BSS

ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY, Kushtia, Sept 20, 2025 (BSS) - Islamic University (IU) in Kushtia today launched a two-day freshers' reception programme to welcome students of the 2024-25 academic year.

On the first day, students from the faculties of Law, Science, Social Science, Engineering and Technology and Biological Science were formally greeted, while students from the remaining three faculties will be welcomed tomorrow.

IU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah presided over the event. University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman and former Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr S M A Faiz attended as the chief guest.

UGC member Prof Dr Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan joined as an honoured guest, while Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr M Yeaqub Ali and Treasurer Prof Dr Jahangir Alam participated as special guests.

The programme began with recitation from the holy scriptures followed by the national anthem. Over a thousand freshers were later welcomed with flowers and songs, and top scorers from each unit received awards.

Convener of the reception organising committee and Dean of the Faculty of Social Science Prof Dr Begum Roksana Mili delivered the welcome speech.

Addressing the freshers, Prof Dr S M A Faiz described them as the Gen-Z generation and urged them to move forward using their talents. 

"Looking at you, I feel hopeful. You have achieved what we could not. You've built yourselves. So, I urge you not to be lost," he said, adding, "Move forward with your talent, look at your country, and give us a great nation."

He also highlighted the generation gap between teachers and students, encouraging faculty members to bridge the distance through collaboration.

Congratulating the newcomers, IU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah said, "There is no alternative to hard work. Your classroom will be your home, your teachers your guardians, and your library the safest place to gain knowledge."