The "BRAC University Faculty and Staff Awards" was held at BRAC Centre, Gulshan, Dhaka on 10 November 2016. The recipients of 2015 awards in three different catagories are Assistant Professor Dr Hasibun Naher of the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (best researcher), Senior Lecturer Zara Sheikh of the Department of Pharmacy (best teacher) and Librarian Hasina Afroz (best staff).
Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, KCMG, Chairperson of Board of Trustees of BRAC University and, Founder and Chairperson of BRAC, was present as the chief guest. Vice Chancellor of BRAC University Professor Syed Saad Andaleeb, Ph.D. and other key personnel from the Board of Trustees, Syndicate and Academic Council were present.
Sir Abed praised the BRAC University initiative for the professional development of teachers, its liberal education program which builds additional abilities like analytical ability, critical thinking, communications skill, digital awareness, broader understanding of society and abilities to operate in society. Sir Abed also pointed out that the new campus of BRAC University in Badda, Dhaka scheduled to open in early 2019 would be second only to Sangsad Bhaban (Bangladesh National Parliament) in terms of area and would contain unique facilities.
Professor Andaleeb said BRAC University comprises high quality teachers, researches and non-academic staff who are competing to become the best and the award program was a reflection of that. Pointing out that the power of “WE” is “wisdom” and “energy”, he urged all to inspire excellence, as the BRAC University tagline says, so that every faculty members and staff can be all that they can be.
Professor Andaleeb believes that great institutions require elements such as first-class teachers, an experienced administration, superior students, innovative programs and sufficient resources, a vibrant curriculum, paedological sophistication, top-notch research and service to society. Professor Andaleeb also pointed out 5 points which Sir Abed asks all to remember for effect and impact. These include the fact that national development requires strong educational institutions and that universities should produce relevant talents and leadership so that society can have people who are ethical, entrepreneurial, empathetic and effective, he said. He said universities can have a measureable impact working with the civil society and the government for concrete achievements in health, wealth and well being.