DUET Deliberates on Energy Engineering and Employment

The Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET), Professor Dr. Mohammad Zainal Abedin, has emphasized that “the role of affordable and reliable energy in sustainable development is undeniable. At present, the energy sector is undergoing a revolutionary transformation. Renewable energy, smart grids, energy storage, the hydrogen economy, and carbon-neutral technologies are no longer stories of the future, but realities of today. Students must not only acquire bookish knowledge but also upgrade their skills to an international standard to solve real-world problems. By utilizing all facilities of the university, they must move forward with creative research and technology-driven innovation, including AI and the Internet of Things. If we can build skilled human resources in the energy sector, Bangladesh will not only become self-reliant but will also be able to compete in the global market.”

He made these remarks on Thursday while addressing as the chief guest at a seminar titled “Exploring the Career Opportunity in Energy Engineering” held in the university’s seminar room.

The seminar was jointly organized by the Institute of Energy Engineering (IEE) and the Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). It was attended as special guest by DUET Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Arefin Kawsar. Presided over by IEE Director Professor Dr. A. N. M. Mominul Islam Mukut, the seminar also featured speeches by Professor Dr. Md. Anwar Hossain, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. The keynote paper was presented by Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, Member (Innovation) of the Bangladesh Energy and Power Research Council (BEPRC) and Additional Secretary. The program was moderated by IEE Lecturer Sejuti Zaman, with a welcome address from Professor Dr. Shafiqul Islam, Additional Director of IQAC.

Vice-Chancellor Abedin further said, “In the current global context, the use of sustainable and renewable energy is expanding rapidly. This sector offers immense potential and employment opportunities. Our students and researchers can undertake research initiatives with these in focus. Future programs of this nature may further expand students’ intellectual capacity, foster research attitudes, and guide career formation in the energy sector. Through joint research activities with various universities and research institutes at home and abroad, we are working to bring our beloved DUET to a leading position in education and research.”

Seeking cooperation from all, he added, “I hope that all teachers, students, and stakeholders of the university will take interest in environmentally friendly, sustainable, and economically viable research to advance both this institution and the country.” He also thanked IEE, IQAC, and all involved for organizing the seminar.

Special guest Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Arefin Kawsar noted, “Energy engineering is a field that not only engages with crucial sectors such as power generation, transmission, and distribution but also connects to emerging technologies like renewable energy, policy-making, energy harvesting, and AI-based energy optimization. Our students must be part of this transition and work to move the country forward in the energy sector.”

He further remarked, “This seminar will play an important role in creating opportunities for participating teachers and students to explore new avenues of research.”

In his speech, IEE Director Dr. Mukut highlighted the importance of innovation in the energy sector, addressing challenges such as climate change, energy security, solar and wind energy, biofuels, modern power systems, and the demand for energy engineers in industry, research, and government.

Keynote presenter Dr. Rafiqul Islam elaborated on global trends, technological innovations, and the opportunities and challenges of the energy sector in Bangladesh. He discussed employment prospects, renewable energy projects, energy efficiency, carbon management, and career-building pathways in the sector.

The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer session, attended by teachers and students from various institutes of DUET.