North South University (NSU) officially inaugurated the North South University Cybersecurity Center (NSU CSC) at the NSU Plaza Area on Thursday, 16 July 2026. The Center was established under the APAC Cybersecurity Fund of The Asia Foundation, in partnership with Protect.ngo and the Global Cyber Alliance, with support from Google.org, a press release said.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Rehan Asif Asad, Advisor to the Honorable Prime Minister, Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and Ministry of Science and Technology, as the Honorable Chief Guest. Among the distinguished guests were Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman, Board of Trustees, NSU; Benajir Ahmed, Member, Board of Trustees, NSU; Kazi Faisal Bin Seraj, Country Representative of The Asia Foundation; and Sabbir Ahmed, Country Manager, Visa Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. 

The ceremony was presided over by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University. At the same time, Professor Dr. Shazzad Hosain, Director of the NSU Cybersecurity Center and Dean of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences (SEPS), delivered the welcome address. Professor Dr. Nasar U. Ahmed, Pro Vice-Chancellor of North South University, also addressed the audience.

The program began with a showcase of the Center’s ongoing projects and strategic initiatives, followed by the formal inauguration and speeches highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity in Bangladesh’s digital transformation. Guests also toured the Center to learn about its research facilities, planned activities, and long-term vision. 

Addressing the audience, Professor Dr. Nasar U. Ahmed emphasized the University’s commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary research. He said, “Through strong collaboration among academia, industry, and government, we aim to develop the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and contribute to Bangladesh’s digital resilience.”

In his keynote remarks, Rehan Asif Asad, Honorable Chief Guest, underscored the importance of collective action in addressing cyber threats. He stated, “Cybersecurity must remain one of the government’s top priorities, alongside connectivity and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Through initiatives like this, universities can play a vital role in strengthening national cyber resilience and developing the skilled workforce needed for the future.”

In his remarks, Aziz Al Kaiser, Chairman, Board of Trustees, NSU, said, “The inauguration of the NSU Cybersecurity Center reflects our commitment to preparing future-ready graduates and contributing to Bangladesh’s digital transformation. By bringing together academia, industry, and government, the Center will catalyze innovation, research, and the development of a secure digital ecosystem.”

Benajir Ahmed, Member, Board of Trustees, NSU, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires strong partnerships across sectors. The establishment of the NSU Cybersecurity Center demonstrates North South University’s vision to build knowledge, strengthen institutional capacity, and support national efforts toward building a resilient and secure digital Bangladesh.”

In his presidential address, Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of NSU, remarked, “The inauguration of the NSU Cybersecurity Center marks a significant milestone in our journey toward academic excellence and national service. We believe universities have a critical responsibility to lead research, develop talent, and collaborate with stakeholders in building a secure and sustainable digital future for Bangladesh.”

Following the inauguration ceremony, a high-level roundtable discussion brought together leading experts from government, academia, industry, development organizations, and the media. The discussion explored emerging cyber threats, workforce development, public-private collaboration, digital trust, and strategies for strengthening Bangladesh’s cybersecurity ecosystem through sustained cooperation.