Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Daffodil International University (DIU) is delivering the keynote speech at the International Conference on Holistic Opportunities for Poverty Empowerment (ICOHOPE 2025) held on 26–27 September in Medan, Indonesia.

Medan, Indonesia September 27, 2025: Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Chairman of Board of Trustees of Daffodil International University (DIU), delivered the keynote speech at the International Conference on Holistic Opportunities for Poverty Empowerment (ICOHOPE 2025) held on 26–27 September in Medan, Indonesia. The Conference was officially inaugurated by HRH Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Ibni Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, Crown Prince of Perlis which brought together policymakers, academics, and development leaders from over 20 countries to discuss innovative approaches to poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

In his keynote, titled “Poverty Alleviation Through Innovation: Exploring New Systems, Tools, and Models in Bangladesh”, Dr. Khan emphasized the transformative role of innovation, education, and entrepreneurship in breaking poverty cycles. He highlighted global best practices such as microfinance and digital transfers, while also sharing pioneering initiatives from Bangladesh, including DIU’s One Student, One Laptop program, employability platforms, innovation labs, and the Daffodil Smart City model recognized internationally for its sustainable and inclusive impact.

Dr. Khan underscored that poverty alleviation requires scalable and contextual solutions, supported by tri-sector partnerships among academia, industry, and government. His insights drew significant attention from delegates representing academia, policymakers, and development leaders across Asia and beyond.

Organizers of ICOHOPE expressed appreciation for Dr. Khan’s contribution and announced the possibility of hosting the next edition of the conference in Bangladesh recognizing the country’s growing role as a hub of educational innovation and social entrepreneurship.

ICOHOPE 2025 brought together leaders from over 20 countries to share strategies for sustainable development, empowerment, and resilience. Dr. Khan’s participation reaffirms DIU’s global standing and commitment to building models that inspire both national and international communities.

World-renowned geneticist Sir Walter Bodmer, PhD, FRCPath, FRS, Emeritus Professor at the University of Oxford and International Advisor to Daffodil International University is delivering keynote presentation on “Human Genome, Cancer, and Immunotherapy” at Daffodil International University organized by Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of Daffodil International University

Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of Daffodil International University (DIU) successfully hosted a landmark International Seminar on “Human Genome, Cancer, and Immunotherapy” on 23 September 2025 (Tuesday) at the International Conference Hall of the university. The keynote speaker was the world-renowned geneticist Sir Walter Bodmer, PhD, FRCPath, FRS, Emeritus Professor at the University of Oxford and International Advisor to Daffodil International University. Sir Walter Bodmer, whose pioneering contributions in genetics and cancer research have shaped modern biomedical science, engaged with DIU leadership, faculty, and students during his visit. He also participated in academic discussions on future academic and research collaborations between Daffodil International University and the University of Oxford.

Professor Dr. M R Kabir, Vice Chancellor of Daffodil International University was present as the chief guest at the seminar. Dr. Mustak Ibn Ayub, Associate Professor, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology of University of Dhaka were present as the guest speaker. Professor Dr. S. M. Mahabub Ul Haque Mazumder, Dean, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, presided over the seminar. The seminar was also addressed by Professor Dr. Bellal Hossain, Prof. Dr. Khondoker Moazzem Hossain, Head, Department of Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (GEB),

Delivering an insightful and inspiring keynote lecture Sir Walter Bodmer pointed out his expertise and guidance have not only enriched our understanding of the human genome and cancer research but have also highlighted the critical role of innovative biotechnology and genetic engineering techniques in shaping modern medical solutions.

Addressing as the chef guest Professor Dr. M R Kabir said, pioneering contribution of Sir Walter Bodmer to human genetics and cancer research have shaped scientific thought across the world, and we are confident that your lecture will greatly enrich our knowledge and inspire new directions of research for our faculty members and students.

He said, the theme of this seminar—Human Genome, Cancer and Immunotherapy—represents the cutting edge of modern science. The rapid advancements in gene editing, molecular diagnostics, and immunotherapy are not only expanding the boundaries of knowledge but also offering new hope for millions of patients worldwide. For Bangladesh, and for DIU in particular, it is essential that our young researchers and students gain access to these frontiers of knowledge so that they can contribute meaningfully to both national development and the global scientific community.

He also said, at Daffodil International University, we are committed to building a culture of research, innovation, and global collaboration. This seminar reflects our strong determination to prepare the next generation of scientists and innovators to address the grand challenges in health and life sciences.

The seminar brought together scientists, researchers, healthcare professionals, and students to exchange insights on the latest breakthroughs in genetics and cancer treatment. It served as a platform to strengthen global collaborations and enhance Bangladesh’s role in research in the field of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology.

Envoy Legacy and Sheltech Group Chairman Engr. Kutubuddin is delivering his keynote speech at the 2^nd program of the second phase of the 'Industry-Academia Linkage Development' lecture series organized by Daffodil International University (DIU)

Envoy Legacy and Sheltech Group Chairman Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed said that despite facing various limitations and adversities, the private sector entrepreneurs of Bangladesh specially in the Ready-Made Garments sector have been increasing production in the country and creating new employment for a large number of people which is much more than the state-owned sector. But still, they have to face some problems which they do not have jurisdiction to solve.

He told these while addressing as the keynote speaker of the 2nd program of the second phase of the 'Industry-Academia Linkage Development' lecture series organized by the Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Industrial Innovation Center of Daffodil International University (DIU) today on September 20, 2025 at International Conference Hall of the university at Daffodil Smart City at Birulia, Savar, Dhaka.

He also said, private entrepreneurs are creating new positions for work. But they have to face big problems for lack of suitable and skilled manpower to fill the posts. As a result, some are bringing in people from abroad with high salaries and thereby increasing the cost of production of goods and services. But with the goal of permanent solution to the issue and the initiative to produce quality graduates is very limited.

A large number of graduates passing out from 8/10 top ranked universities in the private sector are doing well and contributing to the national development but the rest of the graduates are a burden rather than a human resource for the state, society and individuals. Praising Daffodil International University in this regard, Engr. Kutubuddin said, why other universities are not able to do it, the University Grants Commission (UGC) should take remedial measures after scrutinizing it.

Professor Dr. M. R Kabir, Vice-Chancellor of Daffodil International University presided over the lecture organized at the International Conference Hall of Daffodil International University where Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Daffodil International University, Dr. Md. Sabur Khan delivered his greetings. The program was also addressed by Prof. Dr. Md. Masum Iqbal, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University. Mr. Md. Kamruzzaman, Head, Department of Innovation and Entrepreneurship conducted the program.

Dr. Md. Sabur Khan in his speech said that people like Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed will always be remembered in our country for the huge economic progress in the RMG sector that has been made since early 80’s in Bangladesh to till the present time. We are fortunate to have people like them leading our economy and their privileged children continuing that trend. I hope our students will read them, listen to them and accordingly contribute to our economy one day.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. M. R Kabir said, we have a lot to learn from people like Engr. Kutubuddin Ahmed and organizations like Envoy Legacy and Sheltech Group. From today's event, we all realize that doing business requires more mental energy than money. He urged the students to fix up the goal first and then try to reach it by all means.

Daffodil International University is the only one in Bangladesh to have Innovation and Entrepreneurship Department, hope our students have gained a lot from this organization and the guidance of Sheikh Nasir Uddin.

Daffodil International University introduced Industry-Academia Lecture series first in the year 2016 and since then, a total of 13 local and foreign eminent entrepreneurs have given their speeches on various topics related to entrepreneurship development under the first phase. A large part of those lectures has been compiled and published.

In line with the said lecture, Daffodil University recently published a book titled 'Life Struggle of Pioneer Entrepreneurs' on 12 prominent entrepreneurs of the country who were born before 1947. Dr. Md. Sabur Khan edited the book. It is declared that the second volume of the book, will be published soon, where the biographies of entrepreneurs born between1947-71 are going to be included.

 Md. Saiful Islam, Chairman of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC and Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, Vice-Chancellor of Daffodil International University along with the high officials at the joint committee between the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) and Daffodil International University (DIU) on implementation of the second Memorandum of Understanding -MoU (2024–2034).

A joint committee meeting was held today on 18 September 2025 to implement the second Memorandum of Understanding -MoU (2024–2034) signed between the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC), Ministry of Industries and Daffodil International University (DIU) at the BOT Conference Room of DIU.

Mr. Md. Saiful Islam, Chairman of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) was present as the chief guest at the meeting. Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, Vice-Chancellor of DIU presided over the meeting. Officials from BSCIC, including Mr. Shahiduzzaman, Director (Skills & Technology), Khondkar Md. Mushfiqur Rahman, Director (Marketing, Design & Handicrafts) and other senior officers, were present. From DIU, Professor Mohammad Masum Iqbal, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mohammad Nadir Bin Ali, Registrar, along with esteemed Deans, Departmental Heads, and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

The discussions centered on joint initiatives such as skills development, research collaboration, micro-credential programs, entrepreneurship support, industrial training, and the creation of international opportunities for students.

Key focus areas highlighted included:

• Providing students with proper training to ensure placement in suitable positions.
• Enabling students to build successful careers in relevant sectors.
• Assisting industries in securing qualified candidates according to their requirements, thereby enhancing productivity.

While addressing as the chief guest BSCIC Chairman Md. Saiful Islam expressed confidence that the collaboration between BSCIC and DIU will serve as a strong bridge between industry and academia, accelerate innovation, and make a significant contribution to Bangladesh’s sustainable economic development.

Daffodil International University (DIU) warmly welcomed freshers of the Fall-2025 semester. The day-long, grand celebration of the "Orientation Program Fall-2025" included discussion sessions, introductions, sports, and cultural events.

The program was held today on September 13, 2025 at the university's Shadhinota Sommelon Kendro in Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar. The event was graced by the presence of the freshers. Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Chairman, Board of Trustees, Daffodil International University virtually joined the program as the chief guest. Professor Dr. M R Kabir, Vice Chancellor of the university presided over the program. Istequemal Hussain, Director (DMD), Debt Management Department of Bangladesh Bank and Amir Rashed Khan along with a group of successful alumni attended the event as special guests. The successful Alumni are Md Abdus Salam (Dept. of BA, DIU), Assistant Director, Directorate of National Consumers' Right Protection, Ministry of Commerce, Bangladesh, Md. Nasir Feroz (Dept. of ETE), Chairman, Silicon Computing Ltd Founder & CEO, Servicing24, Masud Rana, (Dept. of NFE), Head of Production, NAC Food & Beverage Ind. PLC and Soummo Supriya, (Dept. of CSE), CEO, BizPartner 360 LLC, Head of Business Development, Oxford International School

The new students were welcomed with flowers, and the university’s various achievements and successes were highlighted through video presentations.

In the program 5 students who have proudly secured 7 medals at the prestigious 9th Shitoryu Karate-Do Open Bangladesh Championship 2025, Afeida Khandaker, Captain, Bangladesh Women’s Football Team and student of Department of Physical Education & Sports Science - DIU, who recently has won the Women in Sports in Sports Award at JCI Bangladesh Women of Inspiration Award 2025 and winning Runner Up team members Daffodil Moot Court at the 16th Henry Dunant Memorial Moot Court Competition 2025 were honoured with memento from the university.

During this session, the Vice-Chancellor provided academic and practical life guidance to the students. He also urged them to utilize the campus's resources and opportunities for their future development while building themselves as responsible citizens.

In his video message, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, said, "Our expectations from the freshers are immense. I believe they will enrich the university's reputation internationally with innovative ideas and new achievements more than ever before. However, ultimately, they must prepare themselves as humane and valuable assets to the nation. The university administration is ready to provide them with all necessary opportunities for this purpose."

Israfeel Masum, AI Engineer (USA), University of Central Florida, and a distinguished alumnus of DIU’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) is conducting an insightful event titled “AI Engineering Career & Workshop”, aimed at preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of an AI-driven world.

Daffodil International University (DIU) hosted an insightful event titled “AI Engineering Career & Workshop”, aimed at preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of an AI-driven world. The session was conducted by Israfeel Masum, AI Engineer (USA), University of Central Florida, and a distinguished alumnus of DIU’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE).

The workshop was designed to be practical, globally relevant, and forward-looking. It equipped students with future-proof AI skills, exposure to real-world applications and tools, and a structured roadmap for international higher studies. In addition, students received valuable strategies for scholarships, SOP writing, and building the right mindset to excel in the global academic and professional arena.

The session was graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Bimal Chandra Das, Dean In-Charge, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, Prof. Dr. Sheak Rashed Haider Noori, Professor & Head, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, along with other respected guests, who applauded the initiative and encouraged students to embrace such opportunities for their future growth.

The event successfully inspired participants to strengthen their academic and professional capabilities and position themselves as future leaders in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Daffodil International University (DIU) hosted ‘Nabanno e Bangaliyana,’ a vibrant celebration of rural culture and the rich heritage of Bengal. The highlight of the event was an inter-university folk competition featuring participants from eight (8) universities.

The program, organized by DIU’s Change Together club, took place on November 25 (Monday) at the university’s campus in Birulia, Savar. The Treasurer of DIU, Dr. Hamidul Haque Khan, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Special guests included Prof. Dr. Md. Bellal Hossain, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, and Prof. Dr. Liza Sharmin, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. Also present were Assistant Professor and Director (In-Charge) of Student Affairs Amit Chakraborty, alongside the club’s conveners and members.

The event was further enriched by the presence of popular celebrities Irfan Sajjad, Tahiya Tajin Khan Ayesha, and members of the Voyal team, who joined as special guests.
The inter-university folk competition featured teams from several prominent universities, including: IUB Music Club, BRAC University Cultural Club, BUFT Fashion Club, North-South University Folk Creation, Dhaka International University Cultural Club, Natyam, Jahangirnagar University, Southeast Cultural Society, Eastern University Cultural Club (EUCC). Additionally, the event included a DIU Startup Market where young entrepreneurs showcased innovative and creative products. The program was further enlivened by mesmerizing performances of traditional folk songs and dances, highlighting the beauty of Bengali heritage.

Jasia Mustafa, Lecturer (Senior Scale) of the Department of Management and Convener of the Change Together club, stated, ‘Nabanno e Bangaliyana’ is a heartfelt tribute to the traditions of Bengal. It has inspired students and the community to reconnect with the cultural roots of Bengal, fostering unity and creativity. This celebration of love and respect for heritage has left a lasting impression on all participants.

Daffodil International University (DIU) has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with ten (10) prestigious universities around the world. These agreements were signed with the commitment to fostering collaborative attitudes in the international educational sector and the promise of providing modern education to students.

Recently, during the 17th General Conference of the Association of the Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) held at Jagran Lakecity University in Bhopal, India from November 18–20, 2024, these agreements were officially finalized. On behalf of DIU, the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, signed the documents. The universities with which DIU has signed these agreements include Adamson University, Bataan Peninsula State University, Our Lady of Fatima University, and Liceo de Cagayan University from the Philippines; Vikrant University and IES University from India; Mainz University of Applied Sciences from Germany; Washington University of Science and Technology from the USA; Danubius University from Romania; and University of Saint Joseph from Macau, China.

Through these agreements, the universities will collaborate on joint research, new academic innovations, faculty and student exchange programs, virtual learning platforms, and creating scholarship opportunities for students. DIU has entered into these agreements with the goal of addressing current global challenges in education, promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing mutual cooperation between these international educational institutions. Additionally, DIU is committed to ensuring a modern and sustainable educational environment on the global stage.

In his speech at the conference, Dr. Md. Sabur Khan stated that these agreements will help improve the quality of education worldwide and create more academic opportunities for faculty and students. He emphasized the need for further cooperation between institutions to make education more technology-driven and student-friendly.

After the AUAP conference, Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, at a special invitation, visited IES University in India on November 21. During this visit, he signed another separate MoU with the university, in which both he and the Chancellor of IES University, ER. B.S. Yadav, agreed to jointly carry out various activities and pledged to improve the education sector. Furthermore, during a special session, Dr. Khan advised the young students of IES University to prepare themselves to emerge as entrepreneurs. As a successful entrepreneur in Bangladesh's technology and educational sector, Dr. Khan has been regularly conducting sessions at various universities and conferences across Asia to guide and motivate young entrepreneurs with valuable insights and strategies to succeed in the current market.

Daffodil International University is hosting ICPC-2024 (International Collegiate Programming Contest-2024) Asia Regional Dhaka Site on December 07, 2024 at Shadhinota Sommelon Kendra of the university at Daffodil Smart City at Birulia, Savar Dhaka.  This was announced in a “ Meet the Press Program held today on November 24, 2024 at National Press Club in the capital. Professor Dr. Syed Akhter Hossain, Regional Contest Director and Dean, Faculty of Science and Information Technology (FSIT) of Daffodil International University uphold the details and special features of the event at the “Meet the Press Program.  Dr. Nadir Bin Ali, Registrar, Daffodil International University presided over the “Meet the Press”. The `Meet the Press’ was also addressed by Mr. Saiful Islam, Deputy Regional Contest Director, Mr. Md. Shah Alam Patwary, Deputy Managing Director, Dutch Bangla Bank Ltd. Mr. Md. Golam Rabbani, Manager, ( Systems), Bangladesh Computer Council, Mr. Mr. Md. Jahangir Alam, Assistant Professor, Mr.Md. Ferdous Ahmed Faisal, Lecturer, Ms. Tanjima Afroz Rimi, Lecturer of CSE Department and Md. Anowar Habib Kazal, Senior Assistant Director (Public Relations) of Daffodil International University 

It was informed at the `Meet the Press’ that the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC), organized by the ICPC Foundation, is one of the largest platforms for students worldwide to showcase their programming skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. 50,000 students from more than 3,000 universities worldwide participate in this competition every year. After completing the competition at the regional level, the best team is selected for the World Finals. The winning teams in the Dhaka regional stage will have the opportunity to directly participate in the 2025 World Finals. The World's Largest Onsite Programming Competition Dhaka Regional ICPC 2024, with 308 participating teams, has achieved the status of the largest onsite programming competition in the world today. 2,489 teams from 148 public and private universities and various IT institutes of Bangladesh participated in the preliminary round. These teams are selected based on the results of this round and taking into account past success and performance. While no announcement has yet been made as to where the world finals of the global competition will be held in 2025, the latest round of meetings between China and Mexico is a huge honor for whichever country hosts it.

The press conference informed that the competition will be held on December 7 from 8 am to 9 pm (non-stop) at the University's Independence Conference Center in Daffodil Smart City, Savar.

Top 10 universities will get cash prize, certificate and first 3 teams and top women team will get cash prize, certificate and champion trophy. First place winners will receive a direct invitation to participate in the 2025 World Finals.

In addition, all winners (except Champion University) will receive a direct invitation to participate in the 2025 Asia West Finals. Regional winners from India, Pakistan, Iran, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan will also participate in the Asia West finals (excluding Champion University). Asia West's leading teams are also invited to participate in the World Finals.  This year's event includes Junior Competitive Programming Contest to attract new generation to programming, where school level students can participate, informed the press conference.

The successful organization of the ICPC 2024 competition has the important contribution of various subsidiary organizations: DutchBangla Bank Limited is providing direct sponsorship as a platinum sponsor. Bangladesh Computer Council (BCC): Engaged in technical cooperation under Information and Communication Technology Department. It was informed in the press conference that Daffodil Computers Limited is providing necessary technical support as a hardware support partner.

Special aspects of the competition:

1. Micro Credential Program Launched: Daffodil International University has launched a special micro credential program for students of the Faculty of Science and Information Technology (Rijhwan) along with the competition. Under this program, students can acquire specialized skills like AWS, Oracle and Competitive Programming, which will make them international professional skills. 2.Large scale event: The country's largest job fair event, where leading IT companies will participate. 3.     Live scoreboard display and various tech talk sessions during the competition. With the efforts of Daffodil International University and its affiliates, this year's competition will serve as a milestone not only for the technology students, but for the overall progress of the country's IT sector.