A discussion titled “Meet the Ambassador Talking- Diplomacy for Cooperation” was held at Jahangirnagar University (JU) aiming to strengthen academic and diplomatic engagement between Bangladesh and Germany. The programme was held at the university’s Senate Hall on Wednesday (20 May) at 11:00 am and was jointly organised by Center for Governance Studies (CGS) and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES). German Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Rudiger Lotz attended the event as the chief guest. Delivering the welcome speech, JU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan said Germany is an important partner of Bangladesh and a symbol of knowledge, discipline and innovation for the country’s younger generation.
The vice-chancellor also said, the university aims to make higher education more research-oriented and closely connected with industries, adding that Germany’s long experience in these sectors could be highly relevant for Bangladesh.
The visit would open new avenues of academic and research collaboration between JU and various German universities and research institutions, he also added. Speaking at the event, Ambassador Dr. Rudiger Lotz said, he was inspired to take part in such a meaningful dialogue with JU students. The younger generation, particularly Gen-Z, as the real architects of Bangladesh’s future, saying the aspiration for reforms demonstrated during the July-August student movement is important for building a stable and prosperous Bangladesh.
The ambassador further said, Bangladesh-Germany relations are gradually moving beyond an aid-based framework towards a strategic partnership. Germany would continue its cooperation in trade diversification, higher education and technical skill development to prepare Bangladeshi youths for the global job market, he also added. Among others, CGS President Zillur Rahman and FES Resident Representative Dr. Felix Gerdes were present at the programme alongside teachers and students from different universities.
