Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has said that new leadership should emerge and operate in the university campuses in such a way that the slogan “New Leadership, New Bangladesh” becomes a reality through their efforts. He expressed hope that under this new leadership, a new roadmap for the nation would be drawn. He made these remarks on Friday (November 7) while addressing as the chief guest at the Central Student Parliament Representatives Reception 2025, organized by Islami Chhatra Shibir at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center.
The Jamaat Ameer said that in the past, student politics was tainted by corruption and unethical practices. Many elected student leaders were involved in dishonest activities instead of contributing to the development of their respective colleges and universities. He urged today’s student leaders to pass the test of honesty with full marks, saying, “This nation does not want to see even one failure in integrity.”
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman congratulated all participants in the student parliament elections, regardless of party affiliation, and said that the elected representatives now carry great expectations from the nation. “Your responsibility is not confined to the campus alone. As the dream-bearers of the nation, you must embrace and implement this vision. The nation owes much to the intellect of university students, and I hope you will repay that debt,” he said.
Expressing his confidence in the youth, he added, “I believe you will be able to shoulder this heavy, mountain-like responsibility.”
He further stated that the student parliament serves as a rehearsal for how the youth will build the future Bangladesh. “I want to see a youth-driven Bangladesh,” he said. He emphasized that each university must prioritize making itself an Academic Centre of Excellence and that student parliaments should take the lead in reviving research culture and ensuring a proper educational environment. “The nation’s hopes for its youth have been somewhat diminished due to a few mistakes. The student parliament must restore that trust,” he added.
Addressing the student leaders, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said, “As citizens, you must prepare yourselves for greater leadership in the future. We want to hand over the leadership of the nation to you—to place you in the cockpit of the country. You will steer the nation while we stand behind you, praying for your success and giving you strength. If you make mistakes, we will correct you gently; if you don’t listen, we will guide you more firmly; and if that still doesn’t work, we will respectfully replace you with the consent of the nation. So, be prepared in that spirit.”