Students of Universal College Bangladesh (UCBD) organised a seminar on human rights on April 9 at its campus as part of their Global Studies course. 

The seminar showed the commitment of the students towards solving complex human rights issues concerning Bangladesh and the rest of the world. 

The seminar was organised to foster meaningful conversations on important human rights issues, including women and girls' rights, freedom of expression, the rights of migrant workers, and minority groups, and the role of NGOs in building a more just world.     

The event began with honorary speeches by Professor Hew Gill, president and provost of Universal College Bangladesh (UCBD), and Prof. Muhammad Ismail Hossain, Dean of Academic Affairs, who welcomed the initiative of the students to discuss these major issues. It was followed by the presentation session by the students.

Thereafter, UNFPA's National Programme Officer for Gender & Human Rights Abu Sayed Sumon, UNESCO Artist for Peace and Founder of BiBi Productions Bibi Russell and Director of BDRCS Sayma Ferdowsy delivered their thought-evoking keynote speeches.

Abu Sayed Sumon, National Programme Officer for Gender and Human Rights at UNFPA, said, "The UN is supporting the government in formulating evidence-based policies, but significantly contributing to empowering civil society, youth and individuals to claim their rights. Nearly 70 percent of women in Bangladesh have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime, while 41 percent of women have experienced violence in the past 12 months alone. These data highlight the need to take immediate action. We are actively working with various reform commissions, where we provide technical assistance to bring these important issues to the forefront of national discourse. Through advocacy, data collection, and policy engagement, we are working in tandem with the government initiatives to uphold the standards of international human rights while ensuring a positive change for women and girls in the country."

In her speech, Bibi Russell, UNESCO Artist for Peace and Founder of BiBi Productions, emphasised the important role of youth involvement in addressing local and global issues. Addressing the students, she said, "You are the future. You should travel to different parts of Bangladesh and promote the local culture, traditions, and achievements. You can discover the work of artisans and artists around the country and showcase their craftsmanship to the world. Youth can play a crucial role in creating awareness of issues like human rights, child trafficking, and child marriage. Develop a positive and grateful mindset towards Bangladesh and uphold the values of human dignity."

Following the keynote speeches, there was a Q&A session where the students questioned the speakers directly about their experience of defending human rights.

The seminar concluded with an overview by Dewan Muhammad Nur A Yazdani, Faculty of Global Studies, who mentored the students throughout the event.