DIU Launches Honors Program in Partnership with Purdue University Fort Wayne

C.B.Desk: Aiming to set a new benchmark for academic excellence in Bangladesh, Daffodil International University (DIU) officially launched its Honors Program on 24 July 2025 at a formal ceremony held at the Dr. Aminul Islam Seminar Hall. The program is being developed in close collaboration with Purdue University Fort Wayne (PFW), USA, marking a significant academic partnership that brings global expertise to local innovation.

Designed for exceptional undergraduate students, the Honors Program will offer enriched curricula, interdisciplinary learning opportunities, mentorship, and engagement in advanced research and community projects.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Ms. Tahsina Yasmin, Director of the Honors Program, followed by a video l9ymessage from Dr. Ahmed Mustafa, Professor of Biology at PFW. The official launch declaration was made by Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, Vice Chancellor, Daffodil International University.

While addressing Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir said, “This is the launch of a new academic culture. A culture that encourages depth over routine, curiosity over complianhnce, and leadership over comfort. Our partnership with Purdue University Fort Wayne ensures this initiative meets global standards while serving local aspirations.”

The keynote address was delivered by Ms. Farah Amer Combs, Director of Honors Program and Director of Experiential Learning at PFW. She shared insights into the role of honors education in fostering critical inquiry and global citizenship, drawing from her experience at institutions like the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Purdue Fort Wayne.

An overview of the program’s vision, structure, and pilot phase was shared, followed by remarks from members of the Advisory Council- Professor Dr. Bimal Chandra Das, Dean In-Charge of the Faculty of Science and Information Technology, and Professor Dr. Liza Sharmin, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

A symbolic highlight of the ceremony was the Honors Pin Presentation to 6 selected students from the Department of CSE, who are part of the inaugural cohort. Representing the first group of Honors scholars, they will serve as role models for future participants.

With this launch, the university takes a decisive step toward cultivating a new generation of critical thinkers, innovators, and ethical leaders and positions itself as a regional hub for academic excellence rooted in global standards.