evaluatinG Students

CU to include social activities

FE Team | Published: November 02, 2024 21:55:25

Sadeku Mujtoba Mahi
Chittagong University (CU) is taking a bold step to improve its examination system by including evaluations of students' social activities. This important initiative was announced by Dr Mohammed Shamim Uddin Khan, the academic pro-vice chancellor, during the closing ceremony of the 19th CUDS Debate and Public Speaking Workshop. The workshop was held at the Business Administration Faculty auditorium and was organised by the Chittagong University Debating Society (CUDS).
Dr Mohammed Shamim Uddin Khan's announcement comes at a time when universities worldwide are focusing more on producing graduates who are responsible and engaged citizens. CU hopes to encourage students to become more involved in their communities by integrating social activities into the examination framework. This will help students in taking on social responsibilities and thinking beyond academics. This new method aligns with the University Grants Commission's (UGC) competency framework, which emphasises teamwork, ethical responsibility, and social engagement as essential skills for future graduates. CU's leadership sees this as an important step in preparing students for real-world challenges.
The 19th CUDS Debate and Public Speaking Workshop aimed to help new students develop essential skills in debate and public speaking. More than 700 students attended the event who are eager to learn how to communicate effectively, think critically, and engage with societal issues. The workshop included several activities that encouraged students to improve their speaking abilities and debate skills. It also featured a cultural programme celebrating the rich traditions of Bangladesh, bringing together students in a festive and inclusive environment.
Team Cheshta, made up of Niyajur Rahman Sarker, Israt Jahan Smrity, and Suyel Kanti Tanchangya, won first place in the Bangla debate category. Team Irony, featuring Oindrila Barua, Arijit Barua, and Ayesha Akther Tasin, finished as runners-up. Oindrila Barua also received the title of Debater of the Tournament (DoT), while Israt Jahan Smrity was named Debater of the Final (DoF) in the Bangla debate category. In the English debate category, Team Invincible, represented by Durriatun Noor and Oindrila Barua, won first place. Team Qubit, consisting of Maruf Hossain and Shahriar Sifat, took second place. For the public speaking segment, Oindrila Barua won first place, Tanjim Ashraf came in second, and Ayesha Akther Tasin secured third place.
The cultural programme featured various performance that highlighted local art and traditions, helping to create a sense of community among participants. The event was hosted by Ahmed Tanjim, vice president of CUDS, along with Sadeku Mujtoba Mahi, Media and PR Secretary, and Aheli Ajman, finance secretary. Their efforts ensured that all attendees enjoyed a well-organised and memorable experience.
Dr Mohammad Javed Hossain, director of the Institute of Education and Research, spoke about the importance of communication skills in student success. He explained that while universities often focus on writing, speaking skills are equally important. According to Dr Hossain, events like the CUDS workshop create valuable opportunities for students to improve these skills, which are critical in both personal and professional settings.
ABM Abu Noman, professor of the Department of Law, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive university environment that values both academic excellence and social engagement. He praised CUDS for its commitment to promoting rational thinking and a sense of patriotism among students, which he believes are key to fostering a more engaged and thoughtful generation.
SM Nasrul Kadir, dean of the Faculty of Business Administration, explained some of the foundational elements of logical debate, such as communication, analysis, and critical thinking. He praised students for participating actively in these areas, as they are essential skills in today's complex world.
Dr Mohammad Kamal Uddin, the administrative pro-vice chancellor, discussed what motivates students is the desire for knowledge and the need for financial success. He congratulated CUDS for organising meaningful learning experiences that support well-rounded student development. He also shared that this combination of skill-building and knowledge-sharing is essential for preparing students for both careers and personal growth.
CUDS has been a strong influence on CU's debate culture for the past 27 years. The organisation has worked hard to promote critical thinking, innovation, and communication among its members. Through workshops, competitions, and events, CUDS encourages students to engage deeply with societal issues, empowering them to think critically and suggest practical solutions. CUDS's focus on civic responsibility and community engagement makes it a valuable part of CU's educational system.
The society's commitment to building not only debate skills but also a strong sense of civic responsibility sets it apart. CUDS aims to develop students into articulate and informed citizens capable of leading positive changes in society. CU's new evaluation framework could lead other student societies and clubs to adopt similar initiatives, further strengthening this culture of social responsibility.
Dr Shamim Uddin Khan concluded the ceremony by sharing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to effectively integrate academic and social activities. He explained that developing the skills and competencies outlined by the UGC framework is critical to preparing students for future challenges in life.
This new approach to evaluating students' social involvement could also strengthen relationships between students and faculty members. Teachers may take on a more active role in guiding students in these areas.
The 19th CUDS Debate and Public Speaking Workshop started as a celebration of debate and public speaking skills and ended up showcasing a reminder of CU's dedication to holistic education. CU hopes to create a generation of graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of making positive contributions to society. This approach is expected to elevate CU's reputation as a university that values both education and civic duty, setting a strong example for other institutions in Bangladesh.
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