East West University celebrates Nazrul Year and Freshers’ Reception for Fall Semester

East West University (EWU) held its Fall Semester 2026 Freshers’ Reception Ceremony on September 10, 2026, at the university campus. The event also commemorated the life and works of Bangladesh’s National Poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam, in observance of Nazrul Year.

As the chief guest of the ceremony, Prof. Dr Mamun Ahmed, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, emphasised that the regulatory body treats public and private universities equally. He highlighted that merit is the primary consideration when granting funds for higher education and research. Dr Ahmed noted that the government has already reduced the VAT on private universities by 5 percent and said the UGC is working to reduce it further by another 5 percent. He congratulated EWU on its many notable achievements over the past 30 years and encouraged the newcomers to develop their skills and leadership qualities by actively engaging with university clubs.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Presiding over the ceremony, Prof. Dr Mohammed Farashuddin, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of EWU and former Governor of Bangladesh Bank, remarked that the vision established 30 years ago—to provide quality higher education to deserving students from lower-middle-income families—has largely been realised. He highlighted that all surplus funds at EWU are reinvested into student development through various scholarship programmes. Prof. Dr Shams Rahman, Vice-Chancellor of EWU, mentioned in his speech that the university equips students with both academic knowledge and contemporary skills, enabling them to build successful careers both at home and abroad. The event also included remarks from Prof. Dr Anup Chowdhury, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics, and a representative from the newly admitted students.

Following the discussions, a cultural programme celebrating Nazrul Year featured performances by the East West University Club for Performing Arts (ECPA) and Nazrul sangeet artist Khairul Anam Shakil. The ceremony was attended by members of the board of trustees, faculty members, officers, staff, and newly admitted students.