I am very pleased and happy to see that Daffodil International University established in 2002 is holding its fourth Convocation on March 6, 2014.
Convocation for any institution of higher learning is a solemn, sacred, and purposeful event of life. One could be worthy of this event by investing much talent, time, money, and most important of all, hard work. The university has been able, within twelve years of its journey, to establish itself as an excellent institution of higher learning and a good research atmosphere. Research is a fundamental mission (Dakar, 1997) and a major function of higher education. It is, therefore, essential that this potential be turned fully to account, not only for teaching purposes but also in order to contribute to the areas of science and technology, social and human sciences (Havana, Palermo 1996) for the advancement of knowledge, cultural development, and fulfillment and for solving the problems with which the society is facing today. Research is needed for sustainable human development and for spreading ideas of peace, democracy, and protection of the environment (Havana, Dakar, Tokyo). This is the duty, responsibility, and function of higher education and its teaching personnel in particular (UNESCO, 1998). DIU has established four research centers with the Deans of Faculties at the apex with an aim to encourage and facilitate research by the teachers and students.
On this special day, our graduate students should remember that graduation will enable them to shift their learning from the classroom to the continuous search for truth, knowledge, and values that will bring richness to their lives and careers.
Finally, I congratulate the graduating students of DIU and wish them all success in their future life.