In recognition of outstanding academic performance, five graduates were awarded the Chancellor’s Gold Medal, four received the Chairman’s Gold Medal, and three were honoured with the Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal.

The ceremony was presided over by Professor Dr S. M. A. Fayez, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), attending as the representative of the Honorable President of Bangladesh and Chancellor of the University, and formally conferred degrees upon the graduates. The convocation address was delivered by renowned economist and former Adviser to the Caretaker Government, Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman, Chairman of BRAC.

In a message to the ceremony, Honorable Chief Adviser Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus stated:
“This convocation is not merely about earning a degree; it marks the beginning of a new and meaningful chapter in your lives. The world today is undergoing profound transformation, striving toward a ‘Three Zero’ future – zero net carbon emissions, zero concentration of wealth, and zero unemployment. As graduates of an entrepreneur-friendly institution like Daffodil International University, you are uniquely positioned to lead this change. The knowledge you have gained will contribute not only to your personal success but also to building a more inclusive and environmentally sustainable world.”

UGC Chairman Professor Dr S. M. A. Fayez remarked:
“Today, students are stepping into a world that is exciting, rapidly changing, and full of innovative possibilities. The remarkable progress achieved by Daffodil International University through the integration of education and modern technology is highly significant for national development. Remember, conscience is greater than a degree. As educated individuals, your ability to distinguish between right and wrong must be sharper and stronger than that of others. With that moral strength, I urge you to dedicate yourselves to serving the nation.”

Convocation speaker Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman added:
“Bangladesh is now passing through a critical phase. In the past, our focus was on survival and progress with limited resources. Today, our economic foundation is stronger, but quantity alone is no longer enough – quality has become central. To avoid the ‘middle-income trap,’ we must enhance innovation, advance knowledge-based work, and uphold strong ethical values. This young generation must grow into problem solvers – individuals who do not merely follow instructions, but create solutions.”

He further noted:
“I am particularly encouraged by the strong emphasis on research and innovation at Daffodil International University. Many institutions struggle to bridge the gap between teaching and research, but at Daffodil, real-world challenges are being addressed, such as climate-resilient agriculture, financial inclusion through fintech, and sustainable urban development. These efforts not only increase research output but also create intellectual capital that strengthens the economy even amid global uncertainty.”

Dr Md Sabur Khan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said:
“Today is not just about receiving a certificate; it is about taking responsibility for the life ahead. From today, graduates are no longer just students; they are stakeholders in society and architects of the nation’s future. Daffodil International University has never aimed to produce job seekers alone; our goal has always been to create job creators. Our greatest strength today is not infrastructure – it is our graduates.”

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr M. R. Kabir added:
“This convocation marks the end of one academic chapter, but the beginning of real life. The education and skills you have acquired at Daffodil have prepared you to lead in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Our ‘Employability 360’ framework and Smart City campus have nurtured innovation and a global mindset within you. From today onwards, you are not just graduates – you are ambassadors of Daffodil. Carry forward positive change not only within your families and communities, but across the nation and the world.”

As the valedictorian of the 13th convocation, Ms Swapnil Akter Nu said:
“Standing here today fills me with pride. My journey at Daffodil International University has shaped me far beyond my imagination. As you step into the next phase of life, remember this: dream boldly, work with integrity, and if you stumble, rise again with courage. The future belongs to those who believe in themselves, even when the path ahead is unclear.”

Gold Medal Recipients:

• Chancellor’s Gold Medal: Ms Swapnil Akter Nu, Ms Jakia Akter, Sourav Gardia, Ariful Rahman, Muntasir Sarkar
• Chairman’s Gold Medal: Anjir Rahman Khan, Md Tuhin Islam, Md Abu Bakar Siddique, Md Abu Bakar Siddique
• Vice-Chancellor’s Gold Medal: Shahriar Shahid, Bayezid Chowdhury, Halima Akter

The convocation concluded with cultural performances by various university clubs, followed by a lively concert by the popular band Warfaze, which captivated the audience.