BRAC University Vice-Chancellor Engages Global Academic Leaders at the United Nations

In a world urgently seeking sustainable solutions, BRAC University continues to stand at the forefront of change. Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, recently participated in a high-level UN forum dedicated to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), marking a significant moment in the institution’s global engagement journey.

Addressing an international audience at the United Nations Headquarters during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, Professor Anwar joined a select group of academic leaders in the segment titled “Institutional Reflections: Creating a Better World – Contributions of Higher Education.” His remarks underscored the power of youth-driven innovation, research, and community impact, with a particular spotlight on BRAC University students who are catalyzing meaningful change in Bangladesh and beyond.

During the program, BRAC University alumnus and Millennium Fellow Srijan Banik shared his leadership journey and the impact of his community initiatives—adding a personal narrative to BRAC University’s growing legacy in social innovation.

While in New York on an academic visit, Professor Anwar has been actively engaging with global institutions, civil society actors, and BRAC University alums, strengthening future collaborations to further social impact projects led by students and acdemia. 

Prospective partnerships are being explored with globally respected institutions and networks, including Columbia University, NYU Stern, Carnegie Mellon, Springfield College, Bard College, the Clinton Global Initiative, Open Society Foundations, Fossil Foundation, and others.

The event, jointly convened by the United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) and Millennium Campus Network (MCN), also featured representatives from Oxford University, Minerva University, Lagos State University, and De Montfort University. Permanent representatives of several UN member states participated in the discussion, highlighting the importance of higher education in global development dialogues.

In a closing dialogue session, Professor Anwar shared reflections on the future of education, youth agency, and the responsibilities of academia in shaping a more inclusive, just, and sustainable world.