Pioneering scholars from Bangladesh, who have affiliation with either the University of Cambridge or the University of Oxford, say it is pleasant to see students from the country are returning after their higher studies abroad to contribute to the nation in some way.

The Oxford and Cambridge Society of Bangladesh, a platform for Bangladeshi scholars who are affiliated with either of these two prestigious universities, said this during the second event of the society held on January 3 at South Breeze Centre in the capital’s Banani.

It was a drizzling afternoon somewhat reminiscent of British weather, a beautiful conference room on the twelfth floor with an almost 360-degree view and a table packed with the dreaming scholars.

And there was, of course, passion and determination in the air, and the wise words of inspiration from some of the pioneering scholars in the room: Professor Rehman Sobhan, Dr Kamal Hossain and Professor Wahiuddin Mahmud.

Professor Rehman Sobhan and Prof M Harunur Rashid both mentioned that in their time, they had an aim of going abroad to study so that they could come back to Bangladesh and make a difference with what they had learnt. They had noticed a change in that trend after their time and for many years, students seemed to be going abroad and not coming back.

Eminent economist Prof Rehman Sobhan spoke at the event among others. Photo: Mohammad Rakibul Hasan

However, they said they were surprised and pleased to see many youngsters returning or inclined to return home after higher studies, and encouraged with their words of support for returning to Bangladesh to contribute in some way to the nation.

It was also motivational to hear about, and then think of, the legacies these scholars had and the high bars they have set for the juniors to try and reach. If anything, the encouragement from the seniors and the positivity and passion of the juniors in the gathering made for a wonderfully hopeful vibe.

Besides, since majority of the members present at the event were females, Dr Hameeda Hossain commented “it is encouraging to see there are more female members in the room, showing how females are excelling in higher education and making the country proud.”

Dr Samiul Haque, president of the society, said that the aim of the society is to create a stronger link amongst its members/alumni and both the universities, which would uphold values of freedom of expression. Members of the society, including experts in their fields starting from climate change, literature, education, law to physical sciences area, expressed their interest and passion to contribute further and share their experiences.

Md Abir Hasan, vice president of the society, said that the society also pledges to have more alumni events, speaker sessions, and a conference on Bangladesh at Oxbridge celebrating the country’s 50 years in 2021.

The Oxbridge society family also hoped it will be able to do its duty to the country and pledged to be a platform of voices fighting for what is right.