Science, tech-based edn a must for progress

"We need to understand that technical education can open up greater opportunities for us," he said while he was addressing the first-ever convocation of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (Kuet).

The President, also the Kuet chancellor, said backwardness in science and technology and slow pace in research works are among the reasons why the underdeveloped countries lag behind.

Referring to the contributions of science and technology, Iajuddin said the developed countries have brought about unprecedented changes in their lifestyle by making the best use of science, research and modern technologies.

"We are now living in the 21st century and the policy of this century is the 'Survival of the Fittest'. So, there is no alternative to skill for survival in this competitive world," Iajuddin said.

He said "We have talents and huge human resources. We'll be able to create skilled human resources if flourishing of talents of the country's huge population could be ensured by utilising science and technology."

"We have to move ahead in this competitive world by utilising science and inventing appropriate technologies through researches," said Iajuddin.

He lauded Kuet for taking well thought-out scientific and pragmatic education programmes since its inception.

The President expressed the hope that Kuet would be able to contribute to our national progress through creating skilled human resources.

Iajuddin also hoped that the graduates of the university would be able to play their due role for the country's development.

Education Minister Dr M Osman Farruk was also present on the occasion.

Some 820 students received degree certificates while 16 post-graduate certificates in the convocation held after Khulna BIT was upgraded to a full fledged university on September 1, 2003.

Of the recipients, 11 students received gold medals.