Daffodil International University Hosts Royal Visit of H.R.H. Dom Duarte, Duke of Braganza

Daffodil International University (DIU) is honoured to welcome H.R.H. Dom Duarte, Duke of Braganza, Head of the Portuguese Royal Household, for an official visit to DIU’s Daffodil Smart City campus in Birulia, Savar on Tuesday, 11 November 2025 at 11:00 AM.

The visit will feature the signing of a Strategic Partnership with the London Tea Exchange, and announcement that Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, Founder and Chairman of Daffodil International University, will be appointed as the Ambassador of Bangladesh for the Fair Pay Charter, an interactive mini lecture session, cultural programmes, and a luncheon in honour of the Royal Family.

This initiative is primarily led by the United Kingdom-based organization, London Tea Exchange (LTE), a globally recognized brand renowned not only for its luxury tea trade but also for its strong commitment to ethical business practices and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

The Fair Pay Charter works in collaboration with various universities, corporate houses, and entrepreneurial organizations around the world to ensure the effective implementation of fair and equitable pay policies in every country.

As part of this royal visit, Daffodil International University and London Tea Exchange have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote academic, cultural, and skill-development collaborations in tea culture, entrepreneurship, and global trade.

Under this partnership, DIU will introduce a short course on Tea Mastering, launch summer and micro-credential programs, organize industry visits to tea estates and factories, and establish a Tea Corner at DIU to celebrate global tea heritage. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in enhancing students’ global exposure and practical understanding of the international tea industry.

In another historic moment, Daffodil International University and His Royal Highness Dom Duarte Pio, Duke of Braganza, signed an MoU to launch the “Duke of Braganza Youth Leadership & Service Program – Bangladesh Chapter” under the theme “Leadership Through Service.”

This program aims to nurture youth leadership, community service, sustainable tourism, and global citizenship, strengthening Portugal–Bangladesh ties in education, culture, and innovation. The Royal House of Portugal will provide royal patronage and certification, while DIU will act as the National Secretariat, implementing training modules, workshops, and nationwide initiatives to empower young leaders.

Additionally, the royal visit includes the inauguration of the Duke of Braganza Heritage Culinary Studio at DIU a pioneering initiative that blends global culinary artistry with Bangladeshi traditions, creating a space for cultural exchange through food heritage and sustainable gastronomy.

Upon arrival, His Royal Highness was accorded a Guard of Honor by the university. Following this, the Duke will have the campus tour and interact cordially with faculty members, officials, and students. This royal visit marks the beginning of a new era of academic and cultural exchange between Daffodil International University and Portugal.

The event will be chaired by Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, founder and chairman of the Daffodil Family and Daffodil International University.

In his remarks, Dr. Khan said, “Daffodil has always been committed to building global educational connections. The visit of the Portuguese Royal Family and the strategic partnership with the London Tea Exchange will further strengthen Daffodil’s international presence and open new opportunities for our students.”

Among others present are Royal Highness Duchess Isabel Inês de Heredia, Royal Highness Prince Afonso de Santa Maria, Sir Sheikh Aliur Rahman, KGOR, KC, OBE, Group Chairman, London Tea Exchange, Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir Honorable Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Masum Iqbal, PhD Pro-Vice Chancellor, Dr. Hamidul Haque Khan Treasurer, Deans of various faculties, faculty members, administrative officials, and students of Daffodil International University.

Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, Vice Chancellor of DIU, said, “We are delighted to host His Royal Highness and to advance our commitment to global academic and cultural collaboration. This event marks a significant milestone in our institution’s international relations.”

As part of the royal visit, a cultural program takes place where DIU students beautifully showcase the rich heritage and traditions of Bangladesh. The day-long event concludes with a special luncheon hosted in honor of the Portuguese Royal Family, attended by senior university administration, foreign delegates, journalists, and distinguished guests.

The strategic partnership, to be announced publicly during the signing ceremony, aims to foster research, exchange programs, and shared educational ventures between Bangladesh and Portugal, further enhancing DIU’s standing as a globally engaged university.

Daffodil International University is a leading private university in Bangladesh committed to academic excellence, innovation, and international cooperation across teaching, research, and public service.