DHAKA : In a remarkable demonstration of transparency, inclusiveness, and institutional respect, Daffodil International University (DIU) has set a new benchmark in leadership transition within the higher education landscape of Bangladesh.
Departing from conventional top-down selection practices, DIU took a bold step to engage its faculty members in the selection process of the next Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellor. Faculty members were invited to cast their vote based on merit, leadership capability, and vision. This participatory approach ensured a broader institutional voice in shaping the university’s future leadership.
Following this internal democratic process, the top three nominees for each role were forwarded to the Ministry of Education (MoE) for final selection, in compliance with national regulatory procedures.
The leadership handover from outgoing Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman to Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor, was conducted with great dignity, warmth, and institutional pride.
In a formal ceremony attended by Deans, BoT Members and senior academic and administrative leadership, both the outgoing and incoming Vice Chancellors shared their reflections and reaffirmed their commitment to DIU’s mission. The ceremonial signing of the official handover symbolized continuity, shared purpose, and a seamless transition of leadership.
Rather than bidding farewell, DIU celebrated the moment under the title "Leadership Legacy an occasion dedicated to recognizing and honoring the profound contributions of Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman, who led DIU through an era of significant transformation for two times. On his final day in office, Dr. Rahman was given a ceremonial escort from his office to his residence. The procession—led by DIU students, Scouts, BNCC and Rover Scouts—was a moving tribute to his legacy. In a powerful gesture of unity, the incoming Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir personally accompanied his predecessor on this symbolic journey.
The event served not as a departure, but a celebration of a life dedicated to academic leadership and excellence. In a heartfelt announcement, the university declared that a seminar room would be named in honor of Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman, acknowledging his lasting impact on the academic community.
Further elevating the occasion, DIU introduced the “Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman Scholarship” with an initial endowment of BDT 15 lakh, ensuring his legacy will continue to support and inspire future generations of learners.
In recognition of his outstanding service, Dr. Rahman was also conferred the honorary title of Professor Emeritus by the university.This thoughtful and exemplary process—from leadership selection to ceremonial transition—showcases DIU’s deeply rooted values of democracy, gratitude, and institutional integrity. It highlights the university’s commitment to a culture where leadership is nurtured, legacy is celebrated, and continuity is planned with care and consciousness. As Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir assumes leadership, DIU stands tall—not just for its academic excellence—but for its profound commitment to values-driven governance and the nurturing of institutional memory.
In every sense, this transition marks not just a change in office, but a continuation of a shared journey rooted in excellence, vision, and service to society.
Daffodil International University Sets a National Example in Leadership Transition Where Leadership is Chosen by the People, and Legacy is Honored with Heart In a country where leadership transitions often remain confined within closed doors, Daffodil International University (DIU) has redefined how academic institutions can embrace transparency, inclusiveness, and emotional intelligence in leadership selection and succession. What unfolded at DIU was not merely a handover of administrative responsibilities—it was a celebration of vision, values, and the people who carry them forward.
In a bold departure from tradition, DIU introduced a faculty-wide voting process to identify its next Vice Chancellor and Pro Vice Chancellor. All faculty members were invited to cast their votes based on merit, leadership qualities, and institutional vision. This participatory model ensured that leadership emerged from collective trust and institutional consensus, not just top-down decisions.
From this democratic exercise, the top three candidates for each post were nominated and forwarded to the University Grants Commission (UGC), in full alignment with regulatory procedures. This initiative set a new precedent in Bangladeshi academia, reinforcing DIU’s commitment to stakeholder inclusion and institutional transparency.
The transition from Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman, the outgoing Vice Chancellor, to Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, the incoming Vice Chancellor, was executed with grace and a deep sense of mutual respect. At a ceremonial gathering attended by Deans and senior officials, the two leaders shared reflections, gratitude, and their aspirations for the university. A formal handover document was signed, not only marking administrative transition but also symbolizing shared purpose, organizational continuity, and leadership maturity. Rather than organizing a conventional farewell, DIU named the event "Leadership Legacy"a thoughtful tribute to the enduring contributions of Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman. On his final day in office, the university community orchestrated a moving Ceremonial Escort from his office to his residence. The procession led by students, Rover Scouts, and members of the DIU community was a heartfelt send-off. The newly appointed Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir, personally walked alongside Dr. Rahman, underscoring a legacy of unity, continuity, and respect.
This was not a goodbye. It was a celebration of a remarkable chapter in DIU’s story and a promise to carry it forward.
As a lasting tribute, the university announced that a seminar room will be named after Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman. In addition, DIU launched the “Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman Scholarship” with an endowment of BDT 15 lakh, designed to support talented students for generations to come.
To honor his visionary leadership, the university also conferred upon him the title of Professor Emeritus, ensuring his wisdom and presence remain forever woven into the university’s fabric.
What DIU showcased through this entire process is far more than administrative policy; it's a living model of institutional culture. One that values democratic practices, honors service with dignity, and carefully curates transitions that preserve momentum and memory alike. As Professor Dr. M. R. Kabir assumes the university’s highest responsibility, he inherits not just an office but a legacy of values, a community of trust, and a roadmap that DIU has drawn for others to follow. In a time where organizations are often judged by numbers and rankings, DIU reminds us that the true mark of greatness lies in how it celebrates people and how it chooses.
