The programme aimed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among students and raise awareness about startup culture. Participants had the opportunity to gain insights and guidance from policymakers, entrepreneurs and industry experts.

Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Adviser Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir attended the event as chief guest. Among others present were Industries Secretary Obaidur Rahman, Sylhet City Corporation Administrator Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury, SUST Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr A M Sarwaruddin Chowdhury and Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Sazedul Karim.

Also in attendance were SME Foundation Managing Director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury, Bangladesh Bank Sylhet Office Executive Director Khaled Ahmed and Idea Project (ICT Division) Project Director (Joint Secretary) Murtuza Zulkarnine Noman.

In their speeches, Khandaker Abdul Muqtadir emphasised that initiatives must be both valuable and well-directed, urging students to become knowledge-based entrepreneurs to address unemployment. Obaidur Rahman highlighted the importance of financial access and government support in enabling young entrepreneurs to grow, while Abdul Qayyum Chowdhury stressed that entrepreneurship is key to employment generation and local development.

Prof Dr A M Sarwaruddin Chowdhury encouraged students to focus on sustainable and long-term initiatives. Prof Dr Md Sazedul Karim emphasised the role of innovation and modern education in building skilled and future-ready graduates.

The programme also featured an interactive session on startups, capital and investment, where experts shared practical insights and guidance with participants.

A total of 16 stalls were showcased at the venue, representing a diverse range of organisations and initiatives. Participating entities included IDLC Finance PLC, Idea Project, Startup Bangladesh Limited, Aspire to Innovate, City Bank, Bangladesh Krishi Bank, YY Ventures Limited, Startup Sylhet, Swisscontact, Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center (BYLC), SMR Business Incubation Centre, BRAC Bank and the SUST Career Club.

The event was conducted in three segments, featuring entrepreneurial journeys, expert advice and strategic guidance.

The programme witnessed strong participation from students, young entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals, creating a vibrant platform for networking and knowledge exchange.