Dr Dipu Siddiqui:In a significant step towards enhancing the quality of education and fostering technological advancement, Dr. HBM Iqbal, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, visited the recently inaugurated permanent campus of Royal University of Dhaka located in the bustling Tejgaon area of the capital city. The visit, which took place on Thursday, August 31, saw Dr. Iqbal inspecting the facilities and interacting with staff and students to ensure the development of a conducive learning environment.
During his visit, Dr. Iqbal toured the faculty and student areas, expressing his commitment to creating an educational ecosystem that promotes excellence and innovation. He underlined the government’s efforts to transform Bangladesh into a smart nation, emphasizing that this vision can be realized through the cultivation of smart students and citizens. Dr. Iqbal pledged unwavering support to nurturing a generation that possesses a blend of humane values and scientific acumen, which he believes are integral to the country’s progress.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Iqbal highlighted the paramount role of science and technology in driving the nation forward. He stressed the need for technology-savvy citizens and advanced technical skills to harness the potential of science, advocating for the creation of a platform where students can thrive in these areas.
In a notable expansion of educational resources, Dr. Iqbal also mentioned the establishment of the ‘Sheikh Hasina University of Science and Technology’ in Bhairab, Kishoreganj. The institution aims to provide students with a world-class learning environment and equip them with the tools needed to contribute effectively to Bangladesh’s scientific and technological growth.
The Royal University of Dhaka’s permanent campus, situated in the prime Tejgaon locality, stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to modern education that is on par with global standards. Notably, the university has embarked on a project to construct a 30-floor building on the southern side of the campus, further enhancing its facilities.
Among the dignitaries present during the visit were Jamal G.Ahmed, a member of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. PC Sarker, Vice-Chancellor of Sheikh Hasina University of Science and Technology, Kabir Ahmed, Golam Mostafa, along with other esteemed university teachers and officials. Speaking on the occasion,
Professor Dr. PC Sarker underscored the aspiration of creating a science-minded nation through institutions like Sheikh Hasina University of Science and Technology.
He praised Dr. HBM Iqbal’s commitment to advancing education at the private level, foreseeing a transformative impact on the country’s educational landscape.
Dr. HBM Iqbal in Brief:
Dr. HBM Iqbal, a Bangladeshi businessman and politician affiliated with the Bangladesh Awami League, formerly served as a Member of the National Parliament of Bangladesh representing the Dhaka-10 parliamentary constituency. He currently holds the position of Chairman at Premier Bank Limited. Born on April 12th, 1950, in Banshgari village, Bhairab Upazila, Kishoreganj District, Bangladesh, Dr. HBM Iqbal received specialized guerrilla training in Dehradun, India, under the Mujib Bahini/Bangladesh Liberation Force (BLF) to contribute to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
He was honored with an honorary doctorate degree from the Commonwealth University, England, with expertise in banking and finance. Additionally, he completed a Master’s degree in Corporate Social Responsibility from the London Graduate School, UK, and obtained an MBBS degree from Dhaka University.
Career Highlights:
Dr. HBM Iqbal serves as the Chairman of the “Premier Group,” a diversified corporate conglomerate engaged in activities spanning banking, insurance, leasing, manufacturing, cement, petroleum, lubricants, training, distribution, travel and tourism, aviation, medical services, steel, supermarkets, HRD, and hotel and restaurant management. Notably, he is the founder of the five-star Renessa by Marriott International Hotel and Hilton International Dhaka, as well as the founder and chairman of Premier Bank Limited. He also played a pivotal role as the founder chairman of People’s Leasing and Financial Services Limited and the pioneer behind Aero Bengal Airlines, the first private sector airline in Bangladesh.
Furthermore, Dr. HBM Iqbal held positions as a former member of the National Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee for the Ministry of Science and Technology in the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Apart from his accomplishments in trade and business, he is widely recognized for his significant contributions to education. He has served as the chairman of several prestigious schools, colleges, and universities in Bangladesh.
Notable Awards and Recognitions:
Throughout his career, Dr. HBM Iqbal has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the European Quality Award by the European Business Council (EBA) in Cannes, France, and the honor from the Overseas Chinese Association in Bangladesh (OCHB). He is also respected by the Korean community and was honored with the World Leader Business Awards in 2016 in Marrakesh, Morocco. Furthermore, he received the “Manager of the Year Certificate” from the European Business Assembly in Cannes, France, and was appointed Lifetime Deputy Governor by the American Biographical Institute Research Association (ABIRA) in 2012. He received the Fakir Lalon Shah Padak in 2009 as “Chairman of the Year,” the “Financial – Best Bank Chairman 2008-09” by Samsung Mobile-Robintex, the Arthkant Business and Cultural Award for “Best Private Sector Chairman,” and the Rafiqul Islam Banking Award in 2003 as “Best Chairman.” He was elected “Man of the Year” by the American Biographical Institute in 2002.
Education Reformer and Philanthropist:
Dr. HBM Iqbal is a prominent education reformer, politician, and philanthropist in Bangladesh. His mission revolves around transforming the education system in Bangladesh to foster smart citizens for a smarter Bangladesh. He advocates for replacing the conventional education system with a modern, technology-based approach. To achieve this goal, he has established numerous educational institutions and religious organizations, including two private universities. In his personal life, he maintains a modest persona.
Involvement in the Liberation War:
Dr. HBM Iqbal directly participated in the Great War of Liberation and sustained injuries during the conflict. He played a vital role in securing Bangladesh’s independence. Since the Liberation War, he has remained dedicated to international causes, contributing to both the business and education sectors.
Dr. Iqbal’s visit to the Royal University of Dhaka’s permanent campus has ignited optimism about the future of education in Bangladesh. As the nation’s private sector pioneers bold initiatives, it is anticipated that such efforts will usher in a new era of knowledge, innovation, and scientific progress, ultimately shaping a smarter Bangladesh.
Author: Dr MD Abu Bakar Siddique widely known as Dr Dipu Siddiqui Associate Professor and Chairman Department of Education Royal University of Dhaka Country Director MTV Network USA and Ex Producer and Sr Correspondent at TARA TV India, TBC USA. Dr. Dipu Siddiqui served as the Creative Director and Cinematographer for Unit Two of ‘Panchsangee,’ a film that received government funding and stands as the sole full-length children’s film centered on the Liberation War of Bangladesh. In addition to his role at the University, Dr. Dipu Siddiqui has been dedicated to creating socially impactful short films, including the well-received magazine programs ‘Nandanlok’ and ‘Ajana Antarale,’ which aired on ‘BTV.