BRAC University hosted a lecture by Jerome Oberreit, Executive Director of BRAC Global, titled “Talk with Students: Mr. Jerome Oberreit” on its Dhaka campus on 6 March 2024.

Speaking on the topic “BRAC’s Distinctive Approach to Development, Humanitarian Aid and Global Solidarity”, Oberreit shared insights gained through years of leadership in developing innovative approaches to development programs, social enterprise and the humanitarian sector.

BRAC is working in 16 countries in Asia and Africa, building an ecosystem for eradicating poverty and economic and social inequality for billions of people by adopting regional strategies to create long-term impact in countries around the world, he said.

He elucidated on the profound impact of BRAC, emphasizing its instrumental role in ensuring not only success in the short term but also fostering sustainable development and inclusivity in the long term.

The attendees, including heads of academic and administrative departments, faculty members and students, had the unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field.

Oberreit gave various suggestions to the students on how they can plan properly, use resources wisely and succeed in their work. He emphasized the pivotal significance of cultivating strategic thinking and adept resource mobilization as integral components for achieving operational excellence and sustainability.

In his speech, Oberreit also highlighted various issues, including adaptation and mitigation to deal with the climate crisis.

“The problems that Bangladesh is suffering from today and the steps it is taking to overcome them in the coming days will serve as an example to the whole world,” he said.

The Executive Director of BRAC Global went round the newly constructed campus of BRAC University and lauded its various environmental and sustainable features.

He said it underscored BRAC University’s commitment to offering students a holistic education that extends beyond traditional classroom boundaries.

Bangladesh is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change and this facility demonstrates BRAC University’s commitment to addressing the challenges head on into the future, he said.

The session featured a lively question and answer session, allowing participants to actively engage with the speaker and glean valuable insights.

Oberreit also paid courtesy calls on BRAC University Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Mahfuzul Aziz, deans of various faculties, department chairpersons and senior officials.