Gazipur, June 4, 2025 – The National University (NU) of Bangladesh is set to hold its second convocation in 2025, a major event for thousands of graduates. The announcement comes from the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. ASM Amanullah, who took charge after the mass uprising on August 5, 2024. This will be only the second convocation in the university’s 33-year history, addressing long-standing demands from students.
The National University, established in 1992, serves over 2,000 affiliated colleges across Bangladesh. Despite producing thousands of graduates annually, it held its first convocation in 2017. That event, on January 17, 2017, at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre, saw 4,932 registered graduates from 1998 to 2012 receive their certificates. Eight students were awarded gold medals for academic excellence. Since then, no further convocations have occurred, leaving many graduates without their original certificates.
Professor Dr. ASM Amanullah has prioritized reforms since taking office. He aims to address academic and administrative challenges, including the lack of regular convocations. In a recent interview, he confirmed plans for the NU Convocation 2025, stating it could happen later this year or early next year. “We have sent a letter to the Chief Adviser’s office for approval,” he said. “Once approved, we will start preparations.”
The absence of regular convocations has caused significant issues for graduates. Many face difficulties obtaining original certificates, essential for higher education and jobs, especially abroad. Temporary certificates issued by colleges are often not accepted internationally. Graduates must visit the NU campus in Gazipur to collect original certificates, leading to extra costs and hassle. For example, Abdur Rahman, a graduate from Noakhali Government College, shared his struggle. “I need my original certificate for foreign university applications,” he said. “Traveling to Gazipur is a big hassle. Regular convocations would let me collect it from my college.”
Students have long demanded regular convocations. Protests have highlighted the need for easier access to certificates. A regular convocation system would allow graduates to receive certificates at their colleges, reducing travel and delays. It would also mark the formal completion of their academic journey, a milestone many feel deprived of.
The first convocation in 2017, held under former Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Harun-or-Rashid, set a precedent. It was attended by the university’s Chancellor and the President of Bangladesh. The event was a proud moment for graduates but covered only a fraction of those eligible. Since then, repeated plans for additional convocations have not materialized.
The NU Convocation 2025 aims to address this gap. It will likely include graduates from 2013 onward, though exact details are pending. The university is working to streamline the process, ensuring more students can participate. The event is expected to be held at a major venue, similar to the 2017 convocation, with the Chancellor’s presence.
Graduates are hopeful about the announcement. Many see it as a step toward resolving years of delays. “A convocation is not just about a certificate,” said a recent graduate. “It’s about celebrating our hard work.” The university’s move reflects its commitment to improving student experiences and meeting their demands.
As preparations begin, the National University is also focusing on other reforms. These include improving academic standards and administrative efficiency across its affiliated colleges. The NU Convocation 2025 is a key part of this vision, promising a brighter future for Bangladesh’s graduates.