By Afrida Lubaba Khan

The Spring 2023 Term at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) was a season of intellectual stimulation and cultural exchange, as the Department of English and Humanities (DEH) organized a wide range of events and activities for students, faculty, and the wider community.

ULAB held its Spring 2023 Orientation, welcoming new students to the university. The orientation program provided an introduction to ULAB’s academic and extracurricular offerings, ensuring that students felt supported and equipped for the challenges and opportunities.

Students were also invited to attend a Career Talk entitled “English Major – Friend or Foe,” which discussed the value and potential career paths for those studying English.

The DEH’s commitment to literary and cultural exchange was evident in the many Literary Salon events held throughout the term. This engaging event celebrated the power of words and brought together literature enthusiasts from all corners of the campus. The salon provided a platform for students and faculty to share their creative works and engage in thoughtful discussions about literature’s impact on society. 

The Sixth ULAB Literary Salon featured Prof. Durreen Shahnaz, Durren Shahnaz, founder of IIX (Impact Investment Exchange Singapore), a prominent figure in social entrepreneurship and impact investing. Prof. Shahnaz’s talk shed light on the transformative power of literature and the arts in fostering social change. It inspired students to think beyond conventional boundaries and explore innovative ways to create a positive impact in their communities.

The 8th Literary Salon welcomed Ghazala Wahab, a prominent author, as the guest speaker. The event provided an intimate setting for students and faculty to engage in a thought-provoking dialogue about literature’s role in shaping societal narratives and the power of storytelling.

The Ninth ULAB Literary Salon was dedicated to the life and work of Dr. Nusrat Rabbee, a renowned author, and academic, who delivered an inspiring talk on her book “Spirit 1971.” The event included readings of Dr. Rabbee’s work and a panel discussion on her contributions to Bangladeshi literature and feminist thought. Moreover, the event shed light on the historical significance of Bangladesh’s independence and its enduring impact on the nation’s spirit.

Another notable event was the DEH Curriculum Integration, which highlighted the department’s innovative approach to integrating literature and the humanities into other fields of study. This exhibition showcased the innovative teaching approaches adopted by the Department of English and Humanities (DEH) faculty members. Students and visitors had the opportunity to witness firsthand how the DEH curriculum integrates interdisciplinary perspectives, encouraging critical thinking and creativity.

The Department of English and Humanities also hosted several workshops and talks that explored the intersections between literature, medicine, and social justice. In “Physical Wounds, Literature: A Talk and Workshop on Critical Medical Humanities in the 21st Century,” participants explored the ways in which literature can be used to understand and respond to the experiences of patients and caregivers. Another workshop, “Researching Children, Not Children,” focused on the ethical and practical challenges of conducting research on children and youth.

Ensuring the professional growth of its faculty, on March 16, 2023, ULAB organized a Teachers’ Professional Development Program. This initiative aimed to enhance teaching methodologies and equip educators with the necessary skills to create engaging and effective learning environments. By investing in the professional development of its faculty, ULAB emphasizes its dedication to providing a world-class education.

The DEH also hosted the Third Conference on English Pronunciation in Bangladesh (EPIB3), which brought together researchers and practitioners to discuss issues and best practices related to English pronunciation instruction in Bangladesh.

Overall, the Spring 2023 term of DEH was rich and diverse in teams of learning, growth, and cultural exchange. From literary salons to curriculum showcases, and workshops to career talks, the department’s events and activities reflected its commitment to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and cultural awareness among its students and the wider community.