Globalisation shapes modern education, emphasising holistic growth beyond academics. Today's universities integrate leadership development, soft skills, networking, job fairs, industry exposure, and corporate visits to cultivate global citizens. The distinctiveness of private universities is especially evident in their extracurricular activities, which are thoughtfully tailored to enhance both the inner and outer development of students.

BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT)

BUFT emerged in the second decade of the 21st century, and as the name suggests, it is associated with the textile revolution in Bangladesh. It is dedicated to meeting the growing demand of the apparel industry both domestically and internationally, while focusing on the development of specific segments of Bangladeshi youth. As highlighted earlier, BUFT is a unique institution that also guides students through various extracurricular activities. Acting Vice-Chancellor of BUFT, Dr. Engineer Ayub Nabi Khan, aptly notified the extracurricular activities in following ways,

"BUFT hosts 21 vibrant student clubs encompassing a wide range of interests, including debate, cultural activities, English language, fashion, apparel, textiles, social progress, environment, sports, and media. Among them, the BUFT Debate Club has achieved remarkable success, winning multiple National Debate Competitions." These clubs play a pivotal role in engaging students in extracurricular activities, promoting holistic growth. Additionally, students actively participate in international fashion shows, design competitions, and cultural events, showcasing their talent on a global stage.

International University of Business Agriculture and Technology (IUBAT)

Acknowledging that education extends beyond academics, IUBAT places significant emphasis on unlocking the potential of its students through diverse extracurricular activities. The university hosts over 20 student societies, encompassing cultural, sports, technology, and entrepreneurship clubs. Notable organisations include the Debating Club, BNCC, Rotaract Club, Volunteer Forum, and local chapters of professional societies. These platforms empower students to pursue their passions, develop leadership skills, and strengthen teamwork. In this regard, IUBAT VC, Prof. Dr. Abdur Rab mentioned.

"Annual job fairs, held in collaboration with industry partners, connect students directly with employment opportunities and networking events. Additionally, competitions such as hackathons and business plan contests inspire innovation and critical thinking, providing students with 

opportunities to showcase their talents at national and international levels. Student life at IUBAT thrives with popular clubs, creating a dynamic environment for personal and professional growth."

Presidency University

Presidency University believes that education should extend beyond the classroom, emphasising the equal importance of extracurricular activities in fostering well-rounded individuals alongside academic growth. "Our campus serves as a vibrant hub for various student clubs, offering opportunities to explore passions, develop new skills, engage in social initiatives, and build lasting connections," said Jahid Hasan, Deputy Director & Head (Acting) Admission, Promotion & PR. He further mentioned that the business club (BIZBOX) instils entrepreneurial mentality among student, social service club reinforces community engagement, sports club promotes physical fitness and wellbeing, debating club promotes constructive dialogue and diverse perspective. Last but not least AI club, programming club, robotics and mechatronic club enable to grow student both personally and professionally

State University Bangladesh (SUB)

"At the State University Bangladesh, we are committed to fostering the holistic development of our students. Our dynamic extracurricular ecosystem features a variety of clubs dedicated to debating, photography, robotics, cultural activities, and entrepreneurship, providing students with platforms to explore their interests and showcase their talents," according to Mohammad Omar Faraque, Director(in-charge), Outreach & Public Relations Department of State University. Additionally, job fairs, industry visits, and competitions are regularly organised, offering invaluable networking opportunities and practical exposure to the professional world. Finally, events such as interdepartmental sports tournaments, leadership workshops, and cultural festivals promote teamwork, creativity, and resilience. Through active participation in these activities, students acquire essential soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership.

Uttara University

At Uttara University, the holistic development of students is a top priority. The institution offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student organisations, competitions, and career fairs, to cater to diverse interests and talents. These initiatives focus on nurturing leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, equipping students to tackle workplace challenges effectively. Hence, VC, Dr Eaysmin Ara Lekha added,

"Students have the opportunity to explore their passions and enhance their abilities through clubs dedicated to business, technology, culture, and sports. Additionally, frequent networking events and job fairs connect students with potential employers. These programs ensure that graduates are not only academically proficient but also well-rounded individuals ready to make meaningful contributions in their fields."

Independent University Bangladesh (IUB)

IUB places a strong emphasis on co-curricular activities, offering students endless opportunities to develop their talents and skills. The Division of Student Activities (DoSA) oversees and coordinates 50 diverse student clubs, fostering an environment of engagement and growth. Appreciating & pointing to various social activities IUB VC, Prof. M. Tamim, said,

"Students are also actively encouraged to participate in community service initiatives, such as blood donation drives, distributing winter clothing to marginalised communities, and fundraising for natural disaster victims. These programs not only promote leadership and teamwork but also contribute significantly to personal growth and social responsibility."

East West University (EWU)

In today's interconnected world, globalisation has opened up countless opportunities while intensifying competition. Classroom-based learning alone is insufficient to seize sustainable opportunities. To develop interpersonal skills, intellectual ability, mental growth, and a positive attitude, students must actively engage in co-curricular and extracurricular activities such as debates, seminars, symposiums, workshops, cultural programs, community service initiatives, and sports that align with their interests.

Participation in these activities enables students to unlock their hidden potential, fostering both academic and psychological development. About the institutional back up of the club activities EWU, VC, Prof Shams Rahman informed, "At East West University, the Students Welfare Department (DSW) is dedicated to grooming socially responsible, empathetic, intelligent, and motivated individuals. By promoting co-curricular and extracurricular activities, DSW aims to nurture well-rounded future leaders who will drive Bangladesh's progress and address global challenges."

International Standard University (ISU)

ISU is passionate about a holistic development of the student. Alongside with rigorous course work it pays no less to co-curricular platforms. Practical exposure is one the key purposes of these club. In this regard ISU VC, Prof. Dr. Abdul Awal Khan said, "The University has made successful and active collaborations with a range of corporate houses. This helps our students to enhance their capacity in the right direction and to apply their achieved knowledge and skills for career development."

Notable clubs of the ISU are following, business club, English language club, IT club, textile club, environment and sustainable development club, sports club, debating club, cultural club, social welfare club, drama club, career club, rover scout club, and law Society

Popular lore often suggests that private universities are solely concerned with profit-making and producing robotic, machine-like graduates. However, a closer look at the various extracurricular activities mentioned above reveals that these clubs nurture values aligned with the humanities and liberal arts. In fact, it can be said that extracurricular activities are not simply an addition to the regular curriculum; they are integral to completing education. Ultimately, these extracurricular activities give private universities their unique character and vibrancy.