One of the most awaited events for Bangladesh-UK Alumni Network (BUKAN) members in Chattogram was celebrated on 26 April 2018. The British Council held the BUKAN Gala Night in The
Peninsula Hotel. The night was brought to life by the presence of over 70 UK alumni members, who experienced the joys of the networking event for the first time in their city.
David Maynard, Director English and Education, British Council, graced the occasion of this vibrant gathering of UK alumni in Chattogram and welcomed the members with an opening message on the British Council’s activities in Bangladesh. The participants were given a summary of BUKAN’s journey and its way forward by Towhidur Rahman, Head of Higher Education and Regional Manager, South Asia – CSFP British Council. Active discussion sessions followed in which the members actively participated and shared their opinions and expectations regarding BUKAN.
The night had a bit of everything: starting from discussions on contributions to the country’s social development, to the identification and overcoming challenges, to some light-hearted fun sessions to round up the night. Jahir Uddin, Head of Chattogram Center, British Council made the closing speech and thanked the alumni for their keen contributions to night’s discussions from their respective fields. He expressed hope BUKAN will be able to create a positive impact on the growing economy and social development with the help of its diverse members. The event ended on a high note with the alumni coming together for a group photo and feasting in a delicious networking dinner.
Numerous post-event responses from the participants demonstrate their interests to work closely with the young generation and their willingness to lend their UK experience and professional expertise for the social development of Bangladesh. Encouraged by the responses, the British Council aims to organise many such events for its BUKAN members on a regular basis.