14/10/2025
Segment 1 | Interactive Session – A Powerful Beginning to ECON-FEST 2025
On September 23, 2025, the Department of Economics-UIU, in collaboration with the UIU Junior Economists’ Forum (JEF), proudly hosted the very first ECON-FEST at UIU! From inspiring speeches by distinguished faculty and guests to the spirited engagements throughout the event, the day was filled with learning, laughter, and lasting memories.
This program was jointly organized by the Department of Economics and UIUJEF, with generous sponsorship and participation from United Finance PLC, special support from TRIBE.com.bd (Apparel Partner) and Courtside (Venue Partner). The event would not have been possible without the guidance of our Head of Department, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Omar Farooq, the dedication of the Junior Economists’ Forum members, and the commendable organizing role of Ms. Musharrat Shabnam Shuchi (Assistant Professor, Dept. of Economics, Moderator, UIUJEF) and Mr. Tanseer Ahamed (Lecturer, Dept. of Economics).
We are deeply grateful to our Honorable Vice Chancellor Sir for his gracious patronage, as well as to our respected faculty, alumni, dedicated staff, and enthusiastic students who made this celebration truly special.
The program began with a welcome speech by Prof. Dr. Farooq, followed by a presentation on the history of the department and inspiring speeches from faculty members, alumni, and distinguished guests. Special thanks to Mr. M. Rafiqul Islam for addressing our audience and motivating our students. We were also honored by contributions from Prof. Dr. Akhtar Hossain (Chief Economist, Bangladesh Bank; on leave from UIU), Prof. Dr. M. Akhtaruzzaman (Former Chief Economist, Bangladesh Bank), Prof. Dr. Ali Ashraf (one of the UIU professors globally recognized in the highly distinguished group of the top 2%), and Alumni Speaker Ehsan Haque (Flight In-Charge, Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd.).
We extend heartfelt thanks to Prof. Salahuddin (Director, Coordination), Dr. Zulfiqur Rahman (Registrar), Col. Zayed (Rtd.; Director, Operations), and Mr. Nahid Hasan Khan (Director, DCCSA) for their extraordinary support. The department and UIUJEF also deeply appreciate Prof. M. Musa, Dean of the School of Business and Economics, for gracing the event and sharing his academic journey in economics.
Though it was a modest beginning, ECON-FEST beautifully captured the joy, energy, and community spirit of our economics family. The enthusiasm of our students and alumni gives us the confidence to dream even bigger for the future!
