Sharing Moments of Learning, Leadership, and Celebration
Professional Highlights
I had the privilege of participating in the AUW–Oxford Information and Networking Session on 9th January 2026, a collaborative event designed to bridge academic pathways between the Asian University for Women (AUW) and the University of Oxford. The session served as an inspiring forum for our community, offering deep insights into the pursuit of academic excellence and global leadership.
We were honored to welcome two prominent representatives from Oxford’s Somerville College: Baroness Jan Royall, Former Principal of Somerville College and member of the UK House of Lords, and Sara Kalim, Fellow and Director of Development at Somerville College. The session went beyond traditional academic discussions; it was a masterclass in navigating the complexities of higher education. The speakers shared their personal journeys and provided a roadmap for students and scholars looking to engage with world-class institutions.
A particularly significant highlight was the announcement regarding our upcoming 12th Commencement Ceremony, where AUW will confer an Honorary Doctorate (Doctor of Arts for Leadership and Educational Equity, honoris causa) upon Baroness Jan Royall. This recognition celebrates her extraordinary achievements and her unwavering commitment to educational equity—values that exemplify the vision and mission of the Asian University for Women.
Listening to these distinguished leaders was a transformative experience. Our community left the session feeling empowered by the possibilities for future collaboration and the academic journeys that lie ahead. The exchange of ideas and the spirit of mentorship present today underscore the strength of our international academic ties and the bright future of the AUW community.
As many of you may know, I am an Enlisted Artist of Nazrul Sangeet at Bangladesh Betar (Radio Bangladesh), Dhaka. It is a privilege to regularly contribute to our national broadcasting heritage. On Dec 29th, two of my Nazrul Sangeet performances were broadcasted via the Dhaka station. Representing the timeless works of our National Poet on such a prestigious national platform remains a core part of my musical journey and commitment to cultural preservation.
On December 21, I had the pleasure of appearing on Maasranga Television’s popular morning show, "Ranga Sakal." It was a wonderful opportunity to share my musical journey with a wide audience through a curated selection of my favorite songs.
During the live session, I performed a diverse repertoire that reflects my musical roots and versatility, including Nazrul Sangeet, Modern Bengali songs (Adhunik), and Folk classics. My sincere thanks and gratitude to Zahidul Islam Zinnah for the kind invitation to such a beautifully produced program. It was truly a morning to remember.
This is my recurring guest artist appearance since May 2018.
Read my editorial in the 4th Edition of The Learning Gazette, the official trimester magazine of the Pre-UG Learning Center. To read the full magazine, click here. This magazine was crafted with dedication by our Pre-UG students of Asian University for Women, published on 26 November 2025.
When you read it, you will see the legacy of our collective effort. You will encounter our students’ dreams, experiences, and triumphs. It showcases the seeds of purpose we plant in classrooms, tutoring sessions, workshops, meeting rooms, and every space where students think, grow, and lead. These students are changemakers, and this magazine is a testament to the seeds we have planted together.
So, when you get a chance, take a short break from your day, grab your favorite drink, put on some music, and enjoy the students’ voices and the heartfelt work that brings so much color, energy, and collective accomplishment to our community.
The Pre-UG Learning Center at AUW celebrated the Fall 2025 Closing Ceremony, a special occasion for reflection, gratitude, and celebrating the achievements of our students on 26th November 2025 at Asian University for Women.
Event Highlights
Launch of the 4th Issue of The Learning Gazette – our student-led magazine showcasing creativity and academic growth
Appreciation Session recognizing the contributions of:
Faculty Members
Peer Tutors from the Study Skills Program and UG Prep Seminar
Teaching Assistants of the Pre-UG Learning Center
Distinguished Guests
Dr. S.B. Fatima Mary – Dean of Students
Capt. Ms. Nusrat Farjana Nazia (Retd.) – Assistant Dean of Students
Md. Noman Uddin – Assistant Director, Pre-UG Math Programs
Ms. Rayhana Fatema Chowdhury – Assistant Director, Pre-UG English Programs
Mr. Ashraf Siddique – Senior Instructor of English, AUW
Mr. Shuva Karmaker – Instructor of English; Coordinator, AUW Pre-UG Learning Center
Special thanks to Ms. Sharna Biswas Eity, Pre-UG Activities Coordinator, for her coordination and support.
Reflections
As Coordinator of the Pre-UG Learning Center and Editor of The Learning Gazette, I emphasized the ceremony’s significance in honoring:
Academic achievements
Student creativity and initiative
Strong community spirit throughout the semester
The event highlighted the collaborative efforts of faculty, staff, TAs, and students, making the Pre-UG Learning Center a vibrant space for learning and growth.
On 20th December, I had a wonderful experience visiting the University of Creative Technology, Chittagong, where I had the chance to connect with inspiring educators and engaged students.
It was a pleasure to spend time with the faculty members and students, catch up, learn their thoughts, and interact in front of such a warm and welcoming audience. The session was titled “Presentation With Canva,” where I focused mainly on the presentation aspect—how students can communicate effectively and present confidently to achieve academic success.
It was especially pleasing to see the students’ eagerness to learn, their thoughtful questions, and the overall positive energy in the room. It truly reminds him that knowledge expands when it is shared with others.
The UG Preparation Seminar – Fall 2025 has successfully concluded, marking another milestone in supporting students as they transition to their undergraduate journey at the Asian University for Women. This trimester, 120 students were prepared for the academic, personal, and professional challenges ahead.
As Supervisor of the course, responsibilities included:
Designing and aligning the curriculum with program goals
Coordinating instructors and session facilitators
Monitoring student progress and engagement
Providing academic guidance and individualized support
Overseeing overall course planning and execution
Having supervised this seminar across Spring, Summer, and Fall 2025, I'm proud to have contributed to preparing future leaders for their next academic chapter.
We look forward to seeing these students move forward with confidence and purpose.
Incredible energy at the Teach For Bangladesh Career Summit 2025 at Frobel Academy, Chattogram! It was a privilege to reconnect with alumni and meet current Year-2 Fellows.
I had the opportunity to share lessons learned, answer thoughtful questions, and support these emerging leaders as they step into their professional journeys. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and drive to make an impact were truly inspiring.
Thank you, TFB, for this wonderful opportunity to connect, contribute, and witness the next generation of changemakers.
Rooted in Purpose, Driving Impact.
I'm pleased to share my article published in The Daily Star, titled “Different Paths, One Purpose: Intention and Humanity in This Land.” Written in the context of the ongoing Durga Puja, the piece reflects on how Bengal’s cultural fabric blends religion, folk traditions, and human values—reminding us that intention and compassion sit at the heart of our shared experience.
The published version is a shorter adaptation.
The full version is available here.
My editorial featured in Edition 02 of The Learning Gazette, the official magazine of the AUW Pre-UG Learning Center, released on April 24, 2025.
Writing this piece reaffirmed my deep appreciation for expressing ideas through words.
I had a wonderful visit to the Department of English at the University of Science and Technology Chittagong (USTC) on September 11 2025 and delivered a talk on 'How to Present Effectively' there.
There, I had met Prof. Dr. Md. Solaiman (Honorable VC), Dr. Gurupada Chakraborty (Dean, FSSH & Advisor of DELL), and Dr. Md. Khaled Bin Chowdhury (Professor & Chairman, Dept. of English Language and Literature).
My heartfelt thanks to Dr. Khaled Bin Chowdhury for his warm hospitality, and to my colleagues Mr. Md Ariful Hasan and Mr. SHAIKAT DAS for making this visit possible.
It was a pleasure to welcome Dr. Alastair Hagger, Director of the UG Writing Center at AUW, to the Pre-UG Learning Center. Together, Dr Hagger & I discussed meaningful ways to connect the two centers and create a more dynamic, engaging, and empowering learning experience for students.
As the Coordinator of the Pre-UG Learning Center, I valued the opportunity to exchange ideas on how the teams can jointly enhance student learning through stronger academic support, creative initiatives, and shared expertise. The conversation was insightful and sets the stage for impactful collaboration ahead.
As a Teach For Bangladesh Alumnus and AUW Learning Center Coordinator, I was recently featured in an interview with Teach For Bangladesh. The discussion focused on my mentorship role at AUW, where I empower students hailing from 17 countries. My commitment to creating inclusive, multicultural learning spaces is key to shaping future women leaders across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
On February 10, 2025, my rendition of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s devotional masterpiece, "Ogo Antorjami" (ওগো অন্তর্যামী), was released by Bashori - A Nazrul Center. The program was thoughtfully planned by Dr. Engineer Khalekuzzaman and hosted by the eminent poet and presenter Rezauddin Stalin.
This soulful song is a prayer to the "Knower of the Heart," emphasizing a direct, spiritual connection with the Divine that resides within. By focusing on the "Inner Knower" who sees beyond outward rituals and religious labels, the song encourages a path of universal love and humanity.
Performing this piece was a deeply reflective experience, allowing me to share Nazrul’s vision of a spirituality.
You can watch the performance here.
On 10 and 11 January 2025, the Pre-UG Academic Orientation was hosted at AUW’s KEPZ and M.M. Ali Road campuses. As English Instructor and Coordinator of the Pre-UG Learning Center, I had the privilege of addressing and welcoming the incoming students alongside AUW Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. David Taylor, Assistant Dean Matthew Glotfelter, and the faculty team.
The energy and promise of the new cohort set the tone for an inspiring semester ahead.
It's a great pleasure to attend the AUW Graduation Day 2025 as a faculty member and Learning Center Coordinator, celebrating the achievements of the students. The event featured Dr. Paula A. Johnson, President of Wellesley College, as the commencement speaker. Earlier that week, AUW hosted a special international conference with guest speakers and alumnae sharing their insights. It was a memorable moment highlighting student accomplishments and academic milestones.
Gargee Tanushree Paul, my former student from the Scholastica Mirpur Campus, has been appointed as a UNICEF Youth Advocate for Bangladesh. In class, she was resilient and attentive, and her dedication to extracurricular activities was truly commendable.
With over 200 published reports in child journalism and her participation in the UNICEF Youth Advocacy Champion Training in Kathmandu, Gargee continues to inspire with her passion for empowering children's voices and advocating for their rights.
Wishing her great success in creating meaningful impact over the next two years!
Raidah Ali Arya, my former student from the Scholastica Mirpur Campus, secured 2nd place in Bangladesh in the Live Mental Math World Cup Competition 2023. Among 54 countries and 7122 participants, she ranked 117 internationally.
She has achieved greatness in the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) with a fifth international rank and second zonal rank.
Additionally, she secured first place globally in the International Conquest IQ Olympiad, earning a gold medal and certificate.
As her class teacher, Mr. Karmaker has witnessed her incredible potential and could not be prouder.
Congratulations, Raidah, on these remarkable achievements!
It was a proud moment as the AUW Pre-UG Learning Center unveiled its first-ever wall magazine, 'The Learning Gazette.' The ribbon-cutting was honored by Dr. S.B.Fatima Mary (Dean of Students) and Mr. Matthew Glotfelter (Assistant Dean). With unwavering support from Pre-UG Activities Coordinator Sharna Biswas Eity and the participation of teachers, TAs, Study Skills Leaders, students, and contributors, we celebrated the creativity, dedication, and teamwork that made this possible.
As the Editor and Coordinator of the Pre-UG Learning Center and Study Skills Program, I believe that this event truly marks a milestone in our journey of collective growth and innovation.
It's been a pleasure to revisit Scholastica to watch their Senior Annual Drama, Encanto. I felt proud seeing my former students perform with such confidence and talent—and reconnecting with colleagues and parents was genuinely heartwarming. Moments like these remind us why being an educator is so meaningful.
Thrilled to launch Summer Rhyme ’24 for the Pre-UG Summer Semester at the Asian University for Women. As the English Instructor and Activities Coordinator, it has been my pride to introduce a vibrant lineup of over 25 events designed to strengthen English use, foster intercultural understanding, connect with core subject areas, and create meaningful engagement.
It began with an energetic Recycle Workshop, where students showcased creativity and strong participation. Many more impactful activities are on the way.
Gratitude to all facilitators, volunteers, and students whose dedication is driving this program forward. Excited for an inspiring and memorable summer ahead.
Spring Rhapsody 2024 was a resounding success, serving as a vibrant celebration of unity, learning, and shared growth. Meticulously planned and executed by a dedicated team of Teaching Fellows, Instructors, Teaching Assistants, volunteers, and students, the event stood as a testament to the power of collaboration.
The program was designed to inspire participants to become "architects of their own destinies", using shared experiences as stepping stones toward a brighter tomorrow. Through a mix of cultural expression and academic reflection, the event fostered deep bonds and celebrated the pride of collective achievement. As a triumph of teamwork and vision, Spring Rhapsody 2024 leaves behind a lasting legacy of empowerment, proving that when a community gathers to chase shared dreams, they don't just learn—they flourish.
I performed Nazrul Sangeet at the Chhayanaut Auditorium on May 25th, the second day of Nazrul Utsab 2024. Singing a romantic piece of Kazi Nazrul Islam at such a respected cultural event is a deeply meaningful honor.
My heartfelt thanks to Chhayanaut, Mr. Khairul Anam Shakil, and Mrs. Kalpana Anam for this invitation and their generous support.
Scholastica (SRM) presented Tasher Desh (The Land of Cards), an enchanting Annual Drama inspired by Rabindranath Tagore. As the Music Director, I had the privilege of guiding the musical elements that brought this imaginative world to life.
The event was graced by Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mohammad Shah Azam of Rabindra University (Shahjadpur) and renowned actress and Member of Parliament Suborna Mustafa, whose praise highlighted the excellence in acting, music, dance, and overall execution.
Special thanks were extended to Sunny Ghosh (Robi Sir), the director, and Ms. Nurun Nahar Majumdar, Principal, for their invaluable guidance and coordination.
To the 71 talented students, their dedication and creativity made this performance truly magical. May their journey continue to soar, breaking boundaries and embracing the joy of artistic expression!
My third original single, "Tomay Pawar Jhor," is now available. This release marks another milestone in my journey as a classical artist and independent musician.
Attended the long-awaited and exciting virtual inauguration on 21st September 2023, organized by Opportunities Now, Let’s Read Bangladesh, and The Asia Foundation.
The event featured insightful perspectives from distinguished guests and marked an important collaborative milestone. Many thanks were extended to the organizers and participants for making this event a success. Looking forward to more impactful collaborations ahead.
I am honored to have provided the first modern recording of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s "Amar Sokoli Horecho Hori." On February 3, 2023, at a festival hosted by the Indian High Commission and the Bangladesh Nazrul Sangeet Sangstha, I released this Bhakti Geeti which had remained unrecorded for decades.
To be the first to give voice to this melody since the poet's time is a milestone I approach with great humility. It is more than just a song; it is a piece of our history that I am proud to have helped restore for future generations.
Honored to receive appreciation from the Hon’ble HOS (Principal) of Scholastica (SRM) for my outstanding contribution throughout the year 2022–23. My sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Principal of Scholastica, Ms. Nurun Nahar Majumdar, for her generous appreciation.
I am excited to share a raw and soulful acoustic performance of my latest original song, "Nimontron" (The Invitation). I wrote and composed this track with a focus on simplicity, and I chose to capture it directly via phone to preserve the true, unpolished authenticity of the moment. Accompanied by the delicate guitar work of Anik Karmakar, this release is my invitation to you to step into a personal musical space that celebrates the beauty of spontaneous creation.
In my latest artistic endeavor, I present "Nikhoj Biggopti" (The Missing Persons Notice), a project that is deeply personal to me. Exploring themes of longing and emotional loss, I released this song at the onset of Falgun (spring) as a dedication to everyone carrying the weight of "fire-burnt hearts."
This project is a true testament to the power of collaboration, blending my lyrics and melody with a global sound. I was privileged to work with Hayat Selim from Egypt, who provided the haunting ethnic humming, and Surajit Bondhopadhaya from India, who handled the mixing and mastering. Together, we bridged borders to tell a universal story. My deepest gratitude goes out to the incredible cast and crew who stood by me from the very beginning of this "story of the lost."
In a significant milestone in my musical career, I was featured in my first solo television program outside of Bangladesh. Hosted in Kolkata, India, the production, "Saat Sokaler Sur, Kothay Sure Nazrul," was produced by Bashori and aired on India’s Channel One.
The program was a beautiful opportunity to showcase the depth of Nazrul Sangeet, where I balanced musical performances with the engaging stories and histories behind the poet's compositions. I was deeply honored to be hosted by the legendary Smt. Sanjukta Banerjee, a renowned figure in the broadcasting world. This appearance marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a cultural ambassador and an artist dedicated to the preservation of Nazrul’s legacy.
You can view to the full program here.
On January 24, 2022, my rendition of the classic Nazrul Sangeet "Onek Cilo Bolar" (অনেক ছিল বলার) was released by Bashori - A Nazrul Center.
This song is one of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s most poignant romantic compositions (Ghazal). It captures the profound melancholy of unspoken emotions and the grief that comes with a sudden parting. The lyrics reflect the heavy heart of a lover who realizes, too late, that there was so much left to say, yet time and distance have now rendered those words silent.
Performing this piece required a deep emotional connection to the themes of longing and missed opportunities, which are central to Nazrul's romantic works. It remains a deeply personal performance for me, echoing the universal human experience of holding onto words that were meant for a beloved who is no longer near.
You can watch the performance here.
Rag 42 was the grand farewell festival for the 42nd Batch of Jahangirnagar University, a campus renowned for its rich cultural atmosphere. A centerpiece of the cultural program was the performance of "Kanar Hatbazar," a masterpiece by the revered Bengali mystic and philosopher, Lalon Shah.
The song, which translates to "The Marketplace of the Blind," serves as a profound critique of spiritual ignorance and human ego. Through his lyrics, Lalon uses the metaphor of a marketplace to describe a world where people are blinded by superficial rituals and pride, failing to see the inner truth. By featuring this folk classic, Batch 42 blended the nostalgia of their university departure with timeless Baul philosophy. This performance acted as a bridge between JU’s vibrant student life and Bangladesh's deep-rooted heritage, urging everyone to seek true clarity as they navigate life's complexities.
My poem titled "Sorbosso" (সর্বস্ব) was featured and recited by the talented voice artist Shahidul Islam Pappu. Released on February 11, 2022, on the YouTube channel Shobdolok, this recitation beautifully captures the deep emotional nuances and nostalgic essence of the written piece.
The poem is a reflective journey through memories, dreams, and the spiritual connection between souls that transcends social boundaries and physical distance. It was a privilege to see my words brought to life through such a soulful and resonant vocal performance.
Performed as a featured Nazrul Sangeet artist in the televised production 'Amare Debona Bhulite' on GTV. This program, organized by Bashori and aired on December 21, 2021, serves as a testament to my ongoing commitment to classical music and cultural activism in Bangladesh.
On December 29, 2021, my performance of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s satirical song "Tiki R Tupi" (টিকি আর টুপিতে) was released by Bashori - A Nazrul Center.
This classic piece is a profound critique of religious dogmatism, sectarianism, and the superficial markers of faith that often divide humanity. By focusing on the Tiki (Hindu tuft of hair) and the Tupi (Muslim skullcap), Nazrul highlights the hypocrisy of religious bigotry and the social stigma attached to outward rituals.
Performing this song was a meaningful opportunity to echo Nazrul's timeless message—that true spirituality lies in humanity and mutual respect, rather than in the divisive walls of religious labels and dogmatic traditions.
You can watch the performance here.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, I initiated and hosted 'Ten এ Tune Live_Karma', a Facebook Live series that aired at 10:00 PM on selected days from May 5 to June 12, 2020, on a Facebook group named "গান শোনাই গান ভাবাই"(https://www.facebook.com/groups/letsbreathemusic).
This project served as a relaxing initiative designed to soothe minds and keep spirits high during a time of great uncertainty.
Across 12 episodes, I served as the host, curator, and performer, managing the entire creative process from artist selection to live presentation. It was a privilege to feature performances by talented artists, including Sharifur Rahman, Tawsif Ahmed, Bitu Shil, Senjuti Barua, Moumita Mumu, Priya Dutta, Navanita Hridi, Priyanka Bhattacharjee, Nowshin Omi, Arham Sadaf Arpon, Latifun Julio, Gaanraj Badal, Anik Karmaker, and myself.
Beyond just entertainment, it was a heartfelt journey of music, poetry, and conversation that provided much-needed comfort and brought our community together when we were physically apart.
Participated in the Empatico Empathy Project Fellowship, an initiative by The KIND Foundation that empowers teachers and students to explore the world with curiosity, kindness, and empathy.
Through four interactive sessions with a partner class, my students learned about the Global Goals and collaborated to design meaningful actions for positive impact. This fellowship allowed them to connect with peers worldwide, fostering global citizenship and collaborative learning.
I'm excited to apply these insights to create a more connected classroom and to share key learnings with fellow educators in his home country.
One of my long-term achievements during my 2-year Teach For Bangladesh Fellowship was installing water purifiers for school children on January 20, 2020, with the support of a dedicated team from Footsteps. I was inspired to learn that all four team members had returned from prestigious universities abroad to contribute to social work in Bangladesh.
When I expressed my admiration, Shah Rafayat Chowdhury, co-founder and president of Footsteps, humbly replied, “You’ve already started what we’re doing.”
In 2021, Shah Rafayat received the Diana Award from the Government of England and the Royal Family for his exceptional contribution to social development and humanitarian work. Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to him.
I recently had the pleasure of joining an inspiring session of "Surokahon: The Wave of Magic" to discuss the vibrant and evolving landscape of Bengali culture. This virtual gathering served as a vital bridge between West Bengal and Bangladesh, allowing us to dive deep into the shared arts and language that unite our two regions.
The session, thoughtfully moderated by Dipanjan Pal, was an intellectual and musical exploration alongside my co-panelists Sejuti Barua, Samyo Karfa, and Samiul Islam Polak. It was truly a night of "open-hearted conversation," where we explored how our generation continues to draw inspiration from our roots while looking toward global horizons.
On May 20, 2018, I had the distinct honor of appearing as the featured guest on Maasranga Television’s popular morning show, "Ranga Sakal." This live broadcast, which aired from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, marked a significant milestone as my first major live television appearance.
The program provided a wonderful platform to share the various facets of my identity. Beyond performing a curated selection of Nazrul Sangeet, I had the opportunity to engage in a deep conversation about my multifaceted journey—ranging from my roots in music to my dedication to academic research and teaching.
It was a truly memorable experience to connect with a national audience and discuss how my musical passion intertwines with my professional and academic pursuits. My sincere gratitude to the Maasranga TV team for the warm invitation and for producing such an elegant program that celebrates art and intellect.