The British Council and British High Commission hosted the Alumni UK gala night
The British Council and the British High Commission have hosted the Alumni UK Gala Night, held on 16 January 2025 at the British Council Dhaka office.
This prestigious event brought together more than 170 UK alumni, dignitaries, and guests to celebrate the achievements of the UK alumni and the transition from the Bangladesh-UK Alumni Network (BUKAN) to the global Alumni UK platform.
The event was a testament to the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and Bangladesh, established through shared educational and cultural experiences and a mutual commitment to global progress. The event highlighted the impact of UK alumni creating in Bangladesh, showcasing their contributions across various sectors, including business, innovation, culture, and sustainability.
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Gavin Tench, Minister Counsellor Political and Humanitarian, British High Commission, highlighted the importance of the alumni network in fostering strong bilateral ties. Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, PhD, Vice Chancellor of the University of Dhaka and a distinguished UK alumnus, also addressed the gathering.
Stephen Forbes, Country Director Bangladesh, British Council, said, 'This large-scale UK alumni gathering is a testament to the UK's unwavering commitment to enriching and enhancing its relationship with Bangladesh. Today, we gather to recognise and celebrate the significant contributions of UK alumni to the nation's progress. We hope this enduring relationship of connection, growth, and collaboration will continue to foster meaningful change in our interconnected world.
The event showcased inspiring stories from distinguished alumni, highlighting their remarkable contributions across various fields. Sangita Ahmed, a Professor at the University of Dhaka, shared her sustainability project addressing critical environmental challenges. Professor Khondaker A. Mamun, PhD, from United International University (UIU), presented his groundbreaking AI-based healthcare initiative. Director Ariq Anam Khan captivated the audience with his award-winning film, Transit. These compelling showcases underscored the diverse achievements of UK alumni and their significant positive impact on society.
The Alumni UK Gala Night marked a significant milestone as BUKAN became part of the global Alumni UK online platform. Launched in November 2022, the platform connects UK alumni across 34 countries, providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration on global challenges. The platform aims to build a vibrant international network, empower alumni with new skills, and foster collaboration to address global issues.
The British Council and the British High Commission remain committed to supporting UK alumni in their endeavours. The Alumni UK platform will continue to provide a space for alumni to connect, share their experiences, and collaborate on initiatives that drive positive change.
Guests enjoyed a musical performance by renowned Bangladeshi singer Masha Islam, which added a cultural dimension to the event and celebrated the vibrant ties between the two nations.
