The Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) organized an international webinar titled “Shaping Tomorrow: Advancing Language Education for Sustainable Development” on August 13, 2026, in collaboration with Shinawatra University, Thailand.
The webinar brought together academics, educators, students, and professionals from different countries, including Bangladesh, Thailand, India, and Malaysia, creating a vibrant platform for international dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The event focused on promoting innovative, inclusive, equitable, and quality education and explored the role of language education in contributing to sustainable development and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4).
The program commenced with the Welcome Remarks delivered by Prof. Dr. Pratikshya Bhandari, Director of International Affairs, Shinawatra University, Thailand, who welcomed the speakers and participants and highlighted the importance of international collaboration and meaningful academic exchange.
This was followed by the introduction of the first keynote speaker by Ms. Nazia Farhana, Additional Director, Institutional Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), and Associate Professor, Department of Management Information Systems, Faculty of Business Administration, AIUB. She introduced Dr. Faria Sultana, Professor and Associate Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Science, AIUB, who delivered the first keynote address.
Dr. Faria Sultana's session was highly engaging and thought-provoking, exploring the important concepts of learning and unlearning in the context of contemporary education. Her discussion encouraged participants to reflect on the need to move beyond conventional assumptions, remain open to new ideas and perspectives, and continuously adapt to the changing needs of learners and society. The interactive nature of the session generated considerable interest among the participants and created an opportunity for meaningful reflection and discussion.
Following the first keynote address, Ms. Ivy Derla, Correspondence Coordinator, International Affairs, and Lecturer in General Education, Shinawatra University, introduced the second keynote speaker, Aleksei Nekhaev, Director of Language and General Education, Shinawatra University.
Aleksei Nekhaev then delivered the second keynote address, sharing perspectives on the evolving role of language and general education in an increasingly interconnected world. The session highlighted the importance of innovative and learner-centered educational approaches in developing essential competencies such as effective communication, intercultural understanding, collaboration, and global awareness. His presentation provided valuable insights into how language education can contribute to preparing learners to participate meaningfully in diverse societies and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
Both keynote sessions were followed by an interactive Open Forum and Question-and-Answer session, during which participants actively engaged with the speakers, shared their thoughts, and exchanged experiences. The participation of attendees from India, Indonesia, Philippines, Poland, Vietnam, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other academic and professional backgrounds enriched the discussions and reflected the truly international nature of the webinar.
The program continued with the presentation of certificates to the speakers, followed by the Closing Remarks delivered by Prof. Dr. Manzur H. Khan, Proctor, AIUB. The event was moderated by Ms. Ena Marie Tiro, PR Manager, Shinawatra University, who facilitated the program and ensured the smooth progression of the sessions.
The webinar successfully demonstrated the value of international academic collaboration and dialogue in addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in education. Through engaging discussions and the exchange of diverse perspectives, the event provided participants with an opportunity to reflect on the future of language education and its potential contribution to sustainable development.
AIUB aims to continue creating meaningful platforms for dialogue, knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective learning towards building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future.
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