The Islamic University of Technology (IUT) has officially launched a student chapter of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), marking a significant milestone in promoting international academic collaboration and professional development for engineering students in Bangladesh. The inauguration ceremony took place on the IUT campus in Gazipur, attended by senior faculty members, representatives from ICE, industry experts, and students from the civil engineering department. This newly formed chapter aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world engineering practices by connecting IUT students with a global network of civil engineering professionals. Based in the United Kingdom, the ICE is among the top institutions globally recognized for civil engineering professionals. By opening a student chapter at IUT, ICE is extending its mission of promoting and advancing civil engineering through knowledge sharing, professional training, and global engagement. The collaboration provides students with access to exclusive resources, industry case studies, international webinars, workshops, and opportunities for certification and internships. At the launch event, the speakers highlighted how crucial professional associations are for influencing the future of engineering education. They encouraged students to actively participate in ICE activities to stay updated with evolving global trends, innovative technologies, and sustainable engineering practices. The chapter is expected to regularly host technical talks, skill development programs, and networking events that will prepare students for successful engineering careers both locally and internationally. Dr. Md. Saifur Rahman, a key figure in IUT’s civil engineering faculty, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative. “This partnership with ICE will inspire our students to aim higher and build competencies that meet international standards. It’s a proud moment for IUT,” he said. Students have also welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a valuable platform for growth. “Being part of a globally recognized institution like ICE gives us an edge. It connects us to mentors and learning resources that we wouldn’t otherwise have access to,” shared one final-year civil engineering student. The ICE student chapter at IUT is part of a broader push in Bangladesh’s technical education sector to increase international collaboration, align with global standards, and produce engineers capable of contributing to national development and global projects. As Bangladesh continues to invest heavily in infrastructure and urban development, the launch of initiatives like this one ensures that future engineers are well-equipped with the technical expertise, ethical grounding, and leadership qualities required to tackle 21st-century challenges.
