Staff Correspondent

Education Minister Mahibul Hasan Chowdhury said that many skill-based jobs have been created in our country. But we do not have candidates who can fulfil our demand based on that skill.

"So, students should focus on professional and vocational education along with institutional education," he said.

The minister was speaking at the 11th convocation of Daffodil International University held on its campus at Barulia in Savar, on the outskirts of the capital on Sunday afternoon.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that there are many opportunities in front of our young generation. They have to be efficient. They have to make themselves employable as well.

Besides, it should be ensured that there is no deficiency in soft skills, he added.

He said that if our graduates are not employable, foreigners will take foreign currency from our country. It should be seen why they are doing well in their respective fields.

"You (graduates) should improve their language and presentation skills."

Addressing the students, Chowdhury said there should be a mindset of learning skills at any age. You must have the mindset of being a lifelong learner.

Dr Franco Gandolfi, professor at Georgetown University, USA was the convocation speaker while Dr Md Sabur Khan, chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University, gave a welcome speech on the occasion.

Among others, University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman (Additional Charge) Professor Dr. Muhammad Alamgir, Daffodil International University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. M. Lutfar Rahman also spoke.

A total of 6,284 students from different disciplines were conferred undergraduate and graduate degrees, while 12 meritorious students received gold medals for their excellent results.