BRAC University hosts global youth leadership conference

The Civic Engagement Cell of the School of General Education at BRAC University hosted the GHEA21 Get Engaged Conference 2026: Student Action and Youth Leadership, bringing together student leaders, academics and civic engagement practitioners from around the world to Bangladesh for the first time.

The conference was held from June 12 to 19 at BRAC University’s campus in Dhaka, according to a press release.

Now in its 14th year, the Get Engaged Conference is a flagship programme of the Global Higher Education Alliance for the 21st Century (GHEA21), focusing on youth leadership, civic engagement and community-based social innovation.

The week-long event welcomed participants from universities across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America and Latin America. The programme included workshops, community immersion activities, project presentations, leadership development sessions and cultural exchange events.

Participants discussed issues including social innovation, community partnerships, climate action, education, inclusion and youth-led development.

Speaking at the conference, Dr. Samia Huq, dean of the School of General Education, said civic engagement remains central to liberal arts education and noted that the conference created opportunities for students to connect academic learning with real-world action.

Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, vice chancellor of BRAC University, welcomed the international delegates and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to developing future leaders grounded in academic excellence, ethics and social responsibility.

Tamara Hasan Abed, chairperson of the Board of Trustees of BRAC University, highlighted the role of education in social transformation and stressed the importance of exposing young people to diverse cultures, ideas and experiences.

Mahdi Amin, adviser to the prime minister on education, primary and mass education, expatriates’ welfare and overseas employment, labour and employment, and spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, spoke about the importance of connectivity, versatility and diverse engagement in preparing young people for the future.

As part of the programme, participants visited community organisations and local initiatives in Dhaka to gain insights into Bangladesh’s development landscape and grassroots innovation efforts. Student delegates also presented civic engagement projects implemented in their respective communities.

According to the organisers, the Get Engaged Conference has connected more than 600 students from over 50 countries since its inception in 2014, creating a global network of young leaders committed to civic action and social change.