The Universal College Bangladesh organised a seminar to foster conversations on human rights issues, including women and girls’ rights, freedom of expression, the rights of migrant workers and minority groups and the role of NGOs in building a more just world on the UCBD campus in Dhaka on Wednesday.
The UCBD students organised the seminar as part of their global studies course, said a press release on Thursday.
The event began with speeches by Professor Hew Gill, president and provost of the UCBD, and Professor Muhammad Ismail Hossain, dean of academic affairs. It was followed by the presentation session by the students.
The UNFPA’s national programme officer for gender and human rights Abu Sayed Sumon, UNESCO artist for peace and founder of BiBi Productions, Bibi Russell, and director of BDRCS Sayma Ferdowsy delivered their keynote speeches.
Abu Sayed Sumon said, ‘The UN is supporting the government in formulating evidence-based policies, but significantly contributing to empowering civil society, youth and individuals to claim their rights.’
Nearly 70 per cent of women in Bangladesh have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime, while 41 per cent of women have experienced violence in the past 12 months alone, he added, mentioning that these data highlighted the need to take immediate action.
Bibi Russell emphasised the important role of youth involvement in addressing local and global issues. ‘You are the future. You should travel to different parts of Bangladesh and promote the local culture, traditions, and achievements. You can discover the work of artisans and artistes around the country and showcase their craftsmanship to the world.’
Youth can play a crucial role in creating awareness of issues like human rights, child trafficking, and child marriage, mentioned Bibi Russell, adding, ‘Develop a positive and grateful mentality towards Bangladesh and uphold the values of human dignity.’
The seminar concluded with an overview by Dewan Muhammad Nur A Yazdani, faculty of global studies, who mentored the students throughout the event.