The Dhaka University Entrepreneurship Development Club (DUEDC) welcomed newly inducted members and bade farewell to its outgoing panel at its “NexCruit 2026: General Member Reception & Farewell Programme”.

The day-long event was held at the University of Dhaka’s TSC Auditorium on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, powered by Quick Drop and in association with Polar Ice Cream, according to a press release.

Professional psychologists and psychiatrists from Shukhee provided free mental healthcare services to Dhaka University students as part of the programme.

The event began with the national anthem, and the University of Dhaka Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr Mohammed Almujaddade Alfasane attended as the chief guest.

Praising DUEDC’s role in nurturing young entrepreneurs, he emphasised participation in co-curricular activities and encouraged students to use artificial intelligence and government support to develop practical ideas.

“Bright ideas must come from bright minds. By utilising government assistance and the opportunities of artificial intelligence, young people can build solutions to global problems and contribute to the country’s economy,” he said.

Faculty of Business Studies Dean Professor Al-Amin attended as a guest of honour and highlighted opportunities for young entrepreneurs, urging students to translate theoretical knowledge and original ideas into businesses.

“Young people have the opportunity to transform their unique ideas into business ventures. Through initiatives like DUEDC, students can develop their ideas and contribute to the national economy as well as their own future,” he said.

Professor Dr Rafiuddin Ahmed of the University of Dhaka’s Department of Marketing, also Director of NSU Social Business Centre and DUEDC Chief Patron and Moderator, highlighted entrepreneurship as an alternative career path.

“There is no specific age to become an entrepreneur; it is a mindset. Through DUEDC, students can acquire the necessary knowledge and mindset to build themselves as entrepreneurs,” he said.

DUEDC’s newly elected Honorary Moderator, Professor Dr Hasina Sheykh, Professor and former Chairman of the University of Dhaka’s Department of Banking & Insurance, also addressed the programme.

She encouraged students to join at least one club of their choice, participate in co-curricular activities, and learn new languages and skills.

Highlighting technology, programming and artificial intelligence, she also urged students to care for their own and others’ mental wellbeing, develop as responsible individuals, and help those around them.

DUEDC President Anindita Paul welcomed the new members and said the club prioritised personal growth, skills development, collaboration and learning beyond the classroom alongside entrepreneurship. She encouraged members to make full use of these opportunities.

The programme also featured a panel discussion titled “From Awareness to Action: Making Mental Healthcare Accessible Through Psychology & Digital Care”.

MathQuest Co-founder and former DUEDC Vice President of Communications Md Farabi Rahman Shrabon moderated the discussion.

Panellists included Assistant Clinical Psychologist Farzana Yesmin Rifat; Dr Sayedul Islam Sayed, MBBS, BCS (Health), MD (Psychiatry), Bangladesh Medical University; University of Dhaka Department of Clinical Psychology Lecturer and Clinical Psychologist Liza Akter; and Clinical Psychologist Moynul Hasan of Shukhee, Grameen HealthTech Limited.

They discussed youth mental health, everyday stress, professional support and the importance of telepsychology.

A question-and-answer session followed, allowing students to raise concerns about mental stress, overthinking, mental wellbeing and seeking professional help.

A crest presentation and reception ceremony marked the farewell of the outgoing DUEDC panel and the induction of new general members, following the programme’s invitation.

Quick Drop Founder Anayet Hossain addressed the new members and emphasised the importance of setting goals.

“Before starting the journey, you must decide where you want to reach. Obstacles will come along the way, but you must keep moving forward and turn your dreams into reality,” he said.

DUEDC Vice President of Administration Tawfiqur Rahman said, “Every member of DUEDC is part of a family. Working across different wings will create opportunities for friendship, networking, and learning from one another.”

DUEDC General Secretary Sazjida Akhterr thanked everyone involved in organising and conducting the event.

A cultural programme featuring music and dance performances followed the formal proceedings.

Shukhee served as the wellbeing partner, Fresh Stationery as the stationery partner, Muscle Tiller Gym as the fitness partner, MAMA as the noodles partner and TanCoffee as the coffee partner.

Other partners included Leather Zone BD as the souvenir partner, SkinPro as the skincare partner, TBS Graduates as the youth engagement partner, Mahtab’s Academy as the learning partner, Career Way BD as the growth partner, and Mukhe Now as the refreshment partner.

The Business Standard was the media partner, Business Inspection BD the outreach partner, and Infogram the byte media partner.

The organisers said NexCruit 2026 recognised the outgoing panel’s contributions while creating opportunities for new members to learn, develop skills, and collaborate through DUEDC.