The Department of International Relations at Jahangirnagar University (JU) organised a workshop titled ‘Driving Systemic Change: Pathways from International Relations to the Development Sector’ on Saturday (22 August) at the New Arts Building of the university.

The workshop aimed to help students understand how academic and practical knowledge in international relations can be translated into career opportunities in the development sector, according to a press release. The session focused on career guidance, professional development and skills needed to navigate the evolving development landscape.

The programme was led by Mst Samiha Akter Salma, with support from Sabbir Ahamed, Muhammad Anggur and Md Morshedul Haque Shiraji. More than 50 students applied to participate, while 30 were selected through an assessment process.

Shamresh Saha, an alumnus of the department from the 37th batch, facilitated the workshop and shared insights from his professional experience in the development sector. He discussed career opportunities for international relations graduates and provided practical guidance on career planning, professional branding, networking, time management, CV writing and long-term career development.

The interactive session allowed participants to engage directly with the facilitator, explore different career pathways and discuss practical ways to prepare for the professional world.

The workshop concluded with participants gaining a clearer understanding of how their academic background could be connected to diverse career opportunities in the development sector.