Top Institutions No Longer Mandate Degrees, Says Energy Adviser

Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, Adviser to the Interim Government’s Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, stated that leading global institutions no longer consider academic degrees mandatory for employment. Speaking as the chief guest at the orientation programme for the Summer Semester at North South University (NSU) on Saturday (17 May) at NSU Plaza, he emphasized the growing importance of skills and a lifelong learning mindset.

“Top companies like Google and Microsoft no longer see degrees as compulsory. While having a degree is beneficial, what matters more is skill development and a commitment to continuous learning,” Dr. Khan remarked.

Addressing the incoming students, he said, “You are entering university at a time when the world is undergoing rapid transformation. Technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics are creating immense opportunities, while traditional education systems are evolving swiftly.” He urged students to look beyond textbooks and acquire knowledge from diverse sources to stay competitive.

The orientation began at 10:45 am, with NSU’s administration welcoming 3,215 new undergraduate students across 19 departments under four schools. Based on admission test results, 75 top-performing students received scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees.

The programme commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem. A documentary showcasing NSU’s journey, achievements, and activities was screened. Registrar Dr. Ahmed Tazmeen delivered the welcome address, while Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Acting Vice-Chancellor, offered the vote of thanks.

Presiding over the event, NSU Vice-Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury highlighted the university’s legacy: “For over three decades, NSU has been a leading private university in Bangladesh, recognized in global THE and QS rankings. We focus not only on academic excellence but also on the holistic development of students. With over 30 active student clubs, our goal is to produce not just graduates but ethical, dedicated, and socially responsible individuals.” He encouraged students to adhere to NSU’s rules and guidelines to become valuable members of society.

Special guests included Azim Uddin Ahmed, Chairman of NSU’s Board of Trustees, and board members MA Kashem, Benazir Ahmed, Rehana Rahman, and Aziz Al Kaiser. Senior faculty, department heads, deans, administrative officials, students, and parents were also present. The event concluded with a vibrant cultural programme performed by NSU students.