Maths proficiency key to scientific, technological progress: DUET VC

A nation's scientific and technological progress depends largely on mathematics, Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET), Gazipur Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Engineer Mohammad Iqbal said on Saturday (25 July).

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the National Mathematics Carnival 2026, jointly organised by DUET's Department of Mathematics and the Math Club.

"Today's carnival is more than a competition; it is a platform for developing logical and analytical thinking among the younger generation," he said.

The vice-chancellor described mathematics as a fundamental driving force behind modern science and technology, noting its crucial role in artificial intelligence, machine learning, information security, cybersecurity, space research, climate forecasting, genome sequencing and complex engineering design.

"Statistics, calculus and linear algebra form the foundation of advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning, while number theory and cryptography underpin information security and cybersecurity," he said. " From research and climate forecasting to genome sequencing in medical science and highly complex engineering design, mathematical modelling lies at the heart of everything," he added.

Professor Mohammad Iqbal said DUET had consistently promoted the study of fundamental science and mathematics alongside engineering education.

"There is no alternative to organising this carnival every year to popularise mathematics and foster creative thinking among students in this era of rapid scientific and technological advancement," he said.

He thanked the Department of Mathematics and the Math Club for organising the event and said he hoped the participating students would one day lead Bangladesh's science and technology sectors and enhance the country's reputation internationally.

The day-long carnival began in the morning with an inaugural ceremony at DUET's Shaheed Shakil Parvez Auditorium.

DUET Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Arefin Kawsar formally inaugurated the carnival.

"Mathematics is the"Mathematics is the language of science. Whether it is artificial intelligence or robotics, mathematical modelling and logical thinking lie at the core of modern technological advancement," he said.lop a love for mathematics from their school years, they will become confident in tackling complex problems in the future. Carnivals of this kind play an important role in building that foundation," he added.

Professor Dr Md Abu Naim Sheikh of the Department of Mathematics chaired the event.

Shahjalal University of Science and Technology Institutional Quality Assurance Cell Director Professor Dr Engineer Salma Akhter; Bangladesh Mathematical Society President Professor Dr Md Shafiqul Islam; DUET Directorate of Students' Welfare Associate Director Professor Dr Md Shahab Uddin; DUET Registrar (additional charge) Professor Dr Md Mostakur Rahman; Department of Mathematics Professor Dr Md Ajmal Hossain; DUET Math Club Adviser Professor Dr Mst Nasrin Akhter; and Bangladesh Machine Tools Factory Director (Finance) Brigadier General Mohammad Shafiqul Haque attended as special guests.

Bangladesh Mathematical Olympiad Committee President Professor Dr Mohammad Kaykobad and Prothom Alo Associate Editor Anisul Hoque delivered keynote speeches after the special guests spoke.

DUET Math Club President Abdul Wadud Ratan and General Secretary Md Rafiuzzaman also spoke later in the programme.

Heads of different departments, directors, teachers and students of the Department of Mathematics, and university officials and employees attended the programme.

More than 1,000 students from around 150 schools, colleges and universities across the country participated in the carnival.

The programme featured a mathematics olympiad, poster presentations, an essay-writing competition and mathematics games. It concluded in the afternoon with the distribution of certificates, crests and prizes.