Education Advisor Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar (C.R. Abrar) stated on Monday that while degrees create opportunities, the true purpose of education is to foster a sense of responsibility toward society.
Speaking as the chief guest at the third convocation of Chittagong Independent University (CIU) at a convention center in Tiger Pass, Dr. Abrar urged graduates to look beyond personal gain. "Degrees open doors, but what you do with your achievements is what matters. If education only serves self-interest, it remains unused," he said.
Addressing the transition to professional life, the Advisor emphasized fairness and compassion in decision-making. He noted that even in administrative tasks—such as dismissing an employee—one must balance organizational interests with individual justice and empathy.
"We are at a major transition point. We must decide whether to return to the systems that led to past disasters or move toward a new, inclusive system. Life’s success should be measured by what we give back to society, not just by individual milestones," he added.
Convocation speaker Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, Chairman of BRAC and former caretaker government advisor, told graduates that a bachelor’s degree is a promise of potential rather than a final reward. He emphasized that the modern world requires a blend of "hard skills" and "soft skills."
"Accept uncertainty; it is not something to be feared. The ability to identify opportunities and restart after failure is the ultimate strength," Dr. Rahman said. He challenged the graduates to be "drivers" of their own lives rather than mere passengers, pursuing ambitions that harmonize with the nation and nature.
The ceremony was also addressed by CIU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Mir Mohammad Nurul Absar, Board of Trustees Chairman Lutfe M. Ayub, and UGC Member Professor Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain.
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