ULAB MSJ honors alumni at first-ever Alumni Awards and Homecoming 2026
Photo: Alumni and the faculties
The Department of Media Studies and Journalism (MSJ) at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) organized its first-ever Alumni Awards and Homecoming 2026 on Saturday at the university’s permanent campus, bringing together graduates, faculty members, current students and distinguished guests to celebrate alumni achievements.
The day-long event aimed to strengthen ties between the department and its graduates while recognizing their contributions to research, journalism, film, communication and social entrepreneurship.
The program began at 11:00 am with a showcase of alumni-led ventures, followed by an activity zone featuring university memories and screenings of two films produced by alumni.
Photo: Roundtable discussion
A roundtable discussion titled “Changing Media Industry and Coping Mechanisms” featured alumni and faculty members Nibras Bin Syed and Zulker Nain. They discussed the changing media landscape, the evolving role of public relations in Bangladesh, corporate influence, mobile and citizen journalism, media ethics, financial sustainability and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into professional practices.
A town hall meeting titled “Reshaping the Future of MSJ Department” followed, allowing alumni to share recommendations on the department’s curriculum, industry connections and future direction.
Photo:Prof. Sumon Rahman
The evening ceremony at Forum Hall began with a classical music performance by Shaibal Saha. ULAB Vice Chancellor Prof. Shamsad Mortuza delivered the welcome address, followed by a presentation from Prof. Sumon Rahman, Dean of the School of Social Science and Head of MSJ.
Photo: Tanjim Ibn Wahab
Renowned photographer and curator Tanjim Ibn Wahab, Director General of the Bangladesh National Museum, attended as the chief guest and presented the award crests. The Vice Chancellor handed certificates and gift hampers to the nominees.
In his speech, Prof. Mortuza highlighted the role of alumni in strengthening the department’s reputation and achievements.
“Our communications office may brand Media Studies and Journalism as ULAB’s flagship programme, but true flagship status has to be proven every single moment by each of you in your workplaces,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining connections among alumni and establishing mentor-mentee relationships with current students.
Chief guest Tanjim Ibn Wahab discussed the relevance of the “university of the future,” emphasizing collaboration within a shared ecosystem and expanding opportunities for media professionals.
Prof. Sumon Rahman encouraged graduates to maintain their emotional connection with the university, saying, “Accept this campus as part of the memory. We live in memory.”
Awards were presented in five categories, alongside a special recognition. Dr Afruza Akter received the Research and Academia award for her work on the digital lives of marginalized migrant workers and rural communities. Dr Sanjana Rahman, founder of ICOMGAM, received the Social Action and Entrepreneurship award.
Md Ariful Islam, Head of the New Media Initiative at Dhaka Post, was recognized in Journalism and Content Creation. Priyanka Chowdhury, Grant Writer at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), received the Social and Corporate Communication award.
Photo: Edela Kasrin Farid taking his award.
Edela Kasrin Farid, a National Film Award-winning costume designer, writer and director, received the Film Production and Management award.
Saad Hammadi, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Canada’s Balsillie School of International Affairs and Board Director of Amnesty International Canada, received the special Achiever of the Year 2026 recognition.
Award recipients based abroad joined virtually and shared their experiences. Dr Mohammad Shazzad Hossain, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Alumni Relations, delivered the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a musical performance by AUSHOMAPTO, followed by dinner. The ceremony was also streamed live on ULAB TV.
