Inspire to Lead: A Conversation with Mr. Md. Shahriar Alam, MP

The Institute of Business Administration, University of Dhaka, proudly hosted Mr. Md. Shahriar Alam, MP, one of its distinguished alumni, for a captivating session titled "Inspire to Lead" on Thursday, 16 May 2024 in the Professor M. Safiullah Auditorium. As a former student of IBA who went on to excel in both business and politics, Mr. Alam's journey served as a beacon of inspiration for current students. The session, moderated by Professor Mohammad A. Momen, Director of the Institute, aimed to provide invaluable insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, and the shifting dynamics of the global economy.

The session commenced with an air of anticipation as students, faculty, and guests gathered in the auditorium. Mr. Alam, a prominent entrepreneur in the ready-made garments sector before entering politics, shared his remarkable life journey, combining experiences from both business and politics to offer a comprehensive perspective on leadership. Professor Momen skillfully guided the conversation and ensured a seamless flow of ideas and anecdotes that resonated deeply with the audience.

Mr. Md. Shahriar Alam recounted his humble beginnings as an entrepreneur in the ready-made garments industry and emphasized the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned along the way. His journey from the corridors of IBA to the halls of power in politics served as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and determination.

Drawing on his experiences and insights, Mr. Alam highlighted the growing influence of Asia in the global economy, citing examples from countries like South Korea and China. He emphasized the need for Bangladesh to seize the opportunities and urged IBA graduates to harness their skills and talents to contribute to the country's economic growth and development.

Mr. Alam expressed his strong belief in the potential of Bangladesh to emerge as a leading economy on the world stage. As a former State Minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he emphasized how effective communication can play a crucial role in promoting Bangladesh to the West and enhancing its global image. He urged IBA graduates to lead change, innovate, and foster sustainable development for Bangladesh's progress and recognition.

The session concluded with a lively interaction between Mr. Alam and the audience. The students eagerly posed questions and sought advice on a range of topics, from leadership strategies to navigating the complexities of the global business landscape. Mr. Alam's candid responses and genuine rapport with the audience captured the essence of the session, creating an atmosphere for continuous learning and growth.