The 12th convocation of Rajshahi University (RU) concluded on Wednesday amid festive celebrations, yet it was marred by allegations of mismanagement, unmet demands from alumni, and notable organisational inconsistencies. The ceremony formally conferred degrees upon nearly 6,000 graduates from three academic batches, transforming the campus into a hub of celebration, reflection, and dissent.
The day’s proceedings began at 8:30 am, featuring a ceremonial procession, the national anthem, and religious recitations. Graduates in academic gowns and mortarboards filled the campus with colour and enthusiasm, greeting old friends, taking photographs, and celebrating years of academic perseverance.
Key Convocation Details :
| Item | Information |
| University | Rajshahi University |
| Convocation Number | 12th |
| Date | Wednesday |
| Graduates Awarded Degrees | 5,669 |
| Academic Batches | Three |
| Venue | University Stadium |
| Chief Guest & Convocation President | Education Adviser C R Abrar |
| Convocation Speaker | UGC Chairman Prof S M A Fayez |
At 9:30 am, a formal procession departed from Shabash Bangladesh Field, passed through Shaheed Shamsuzzoha Square, and arrived at the stadium. The main ceremony commenced shortly before 10:00 am with dignitaries taking their seats, followed by formal addresses and the conferral of degrees by faculty deans.
In his keynote address, Education Adviser Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar urged graduates to move beyond personal success and reflect on the broader social impact of their achievements. He emphasised ethical leadership, resistance to corruption, and the responsibility of educated citizens to build just and humane institutions. He also acknowledged the vital contributions of families, teachers, and society in shaping the graduates’ journey.
Similarly, UGC Chairman Prof S M A Fayez encouraged graduates to navigate uncertainty with courage, advising them to treat challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles. Vice-Chancellor Prof Saleh Hasan Naqib echoed these sentiments, reminding graduates that failure and doubt are inevitable, but resilience and self-belief would define their future success.
Festive Campus, Empty Stage :
Despite the celebratory atmosphere across the campus, attendance inside the main stadium was noticeably sparse. Nearly two-thirds of the student-designated seating remained vacant, and sporadic chants of “shame” were heard as certificates were being handed over. Many graduates chose to remain outside the main venue, socialising and taking photographs instead of attending the formal proceedings.
Several graduates cited dissatisfaction with the guest list and the administration’s refusal to reconsider alumni demands as the primary reasons for their symbolic boycott. Abdullah Al Mamun, a graduate participant, stated that while they attended the campus celebrations, they deliberately abstained from the main event in protest.
Media Exclusion Sparks Criticism:
Adding to the controversy, journalists reported that no formal invitations were issued to media outlets. This omission drew strong criticism from senior journalists, who questioned the effectiveness of the university’s public relations office. Jamuna Television’s Rajshahi Bureau Chief, Shibli Noman, described the situation as unprecedented in his 25-year career.