Iftikhar Hussain of Bangladesh University of Professionals and Shamailah Tajrian of Adamjee Cantonment College won the university and college segments, respectively, of Make It Count 2026, a national public speaking competition organised by BUP Career Club.

Presented by Abul Khair Group, the competition concluded its fourth edition with a final at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), according to the press release. The event returned after a four-year hiatus, bringing together young speakers from universities and colleges nationwide.

Held under the theme “Freedom of Speech”, the competition received approximately 500 registrations from 43 universities and 31 colleges. After several rounds, 12 finalists – six from each segment – advanced to the final.

The finalists competed in an extempore speaking round that tested their spontaneity, critical thinking and communication skills.

In the university segment, BUP’s Imtiaz Mahmud finished first runner-up, while Areez Binte Hossain of North South University was named second runner-up.

In the college segment, Sadique Hassan Al-Mahmud of Rangpur Cadet College finished first runner-up, followed by Zawata Afnan Zenith of Adamjee Cantonment College as second runner-up.

Brigadier General Md Aminul Akbar Khan, dean of BUP’s Faculty of Business Studies, attended the final as chief guest.

BUP Career Club said the competition provides a national platform for young people to express their ideas, develop communication skills and engage with different perspectives.