Varendra University marked a pivotal moment in the realm of academic innovation with the official launch of its University Innovation Hub Program (UIHP) on January 25, 2024. Hosted on the university campus, this momentous event signified a new era in cultivating entrepreneurial talent, drawing in over 100 students for its first event.
The UIHP, a significant incubation initiative spearheaded by the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority (BHTPA) and financed by the World Bank, is designed to foster innovative ideas and startups within the university community, encompassing students, faculty, and alumni. The program's curriculum is divided into three key components: the Innovation Cohort, the Entrepreneurship Lecture Series, and a Certificate Course on Innovation and Entrepreneurship. This comprehensive curriculum addresses a wide spectrum of topics, from ideation and prototype development to intellectual property protection, financial modeling, and strategies for growing the startup ecosystem.
Professor Dr. Md. Khademul Islam Molla, PhD, Coordinator of the Computer Science and Engineering Department at Varendra University, delivered a motivating opening speech. He underscored the UIHP's perfect alignment with the university's mission to nurture innovation and ready students as catalysts for positive societal transformation. Dr. Molla particularly emphasized the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students, equipping them with essential skills to address real-world challenges. He also proudly announced the selection of 13 teams for the program's first Innovation Cohort.
Mr. M. L. Khabir, the National Coordinator of the University Innovation Hub Programme, provided a detailed overview of the UIHP. He highlighted the program's unique curriculum, which skillfully merges theoretical knowledge with practical experience, aiming to cultivate a strong entrepreneurial culture within the educational framework.
The event reached its zenith with a sincere vote of thanks from Mr. Suranjit Mondal, Registrar of Varendra University. Mr. Mondal extended deep gratitude to all contributors who played a pivotal role in the triumphant inauguration of the UIHP.
The University Innovation Hub Program stands as a robust testament to Varendra University's enduring commitment to excellence and its vision of developing future leaders who will spearhead innovation and contribute positively to society.