Prof. Mamun Delivers Keynote on Innovation Ecosystem at Varendra University Seminar
On February 13, 2025, Prof. Khondaker Abdullah Al Mamun, Director of the Institute of Research, Innovation, Incubation and Commercialization (IRIIC) at United International University, delivered the keynote address at a high-impact seminar titled “Innovation Influencing” held at Senate Hall, Varendra University, in Rajshahi. The event was organized under the University Innovation Hub Program by the Department of Business Administration, Varendra University, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority and the DEIED Project, supported by The World Bank and the ICT Division, Government of Bangladesh.
Prof. Mamun’s keynote, titled “Building Innovation Ecosystem for Bangladesh 2.0”, highlighted the importance of academic institutions embracing innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation to accelerate the country’s journey toward knowledge-based economic development. Drawing from his own experience in leading nationally recognized innovation projects like CMED Health and IRIIC, he stressed the need for nurturing youth potential through structured incubation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and university-driven entrepreneurship hubs.
The event featured distinguished speakers including A.K.M. Amirul Islam, Managing Director of Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, as the Chief Guest, and Mr. Monjur Mohammad Shahriar, Project Director of the DEIED Project, as Guest of Honour. ANM Shafiqul Islam, Innovation and Commercialization Specialist (DEIED), and Prof. Dr. Khademul Islam Molla, Director of IT and CSE Coordinator at Varendra University, also addressed the audience. The seminar was chaired by Prof. Dr. Ananda Kumar Saha, Vice Chancellor (Acting), Varendra University.
Speakers collectively emphasized the urgent need to foster a culture of digital entrepreneurship and tech-enabled problem-solving within the university ecosystem. They encouraged students to think innovatively and explore startup opportunities that address real-world challenges in society.
Prof. Mamun’s participation and the insights he shared served as a major source of inspiration for the students and faculty, reaffirming the role of universities as critical engines of economic and social transformation. The seminar stands as a powerful example of how regional academic institutions are aligning with national innovation strategies to build the future of Bangladesh 2.0.
