Blueprint for Leadership

"Our BBA combines rigorous academics with real workplace experience, so graduates lead ethically, innovate confidently, and meet employer needs in a digital, sustainable economy."

— Professor Dr Md. Nasim Anjum Dean, Faculty of Business Fareast International University

Fareast International University, a growing private university in Bangladesh, which blends practical business education with industry engagement. In this interview, the dean and faculty explain how FIU's BBA grooms career-ready, ethically grounded business leaders.

The Daily Star (TDS): In which year was your business school or BBA programme established, and how has student enrolment grown since inception?

Md. Nasim Anjum (MNA): The Business School at Fareast International University (FIU) was established in 2013. Since its inception, the school has witnessed steady growth in enrolment and academic reputation. Starting with a small cohort of 40 students, the BBA and MBA programmes have served more than 800 students, reflecting the growing trust of students and employers in FIU's quality of business education.

TDS: How many students are currently enrolled in your BBA and MBA programmes, and what is your student-to-faculty ratio?

MNA: Currently, there are approximately 300 students enrolled in the BBA programme and MBA programme. The student-to-faculty ratio is around 20:1, ensuring personalised mentoring and effective learning support.

TDS: What is the core teaching philosophy of your business school — theory-based, industry-driven, or experiential?

MNA: FIU blends theory with practice by emphasising industry-driven and experiential learning; the curriculum integrates real-world case studies, corporate guest sessions, project-based learning and simulations so students can apply classroom concepts to market realities.

TDS: What makes your BBA/MBA program stand out in today's competitive business education landscape?

MNA: The programme stands out for its focus on career readiness and ethical leadership, with particular attention to digital transformation, financial technology and sustainability, equipping graduates with contemporary skills valued by employers.

TDS: How does your department ensure practical, hands-on learning?

MNA: Hands-on learning is embedded in every course through case-based teaching, business simulations and entrepreneurial challenges, complemented by industry visits and corporate talks that bridge theory and professional application.

TDS: What opportunities do students have for global exposure, exchange programmes, or emerging-skill courses?

 MNA: Students access international webinars and virtual exchanges while the school explores regional academic mobility. Course modules increasingly cover financial analytics, fintech, and sustainable business practices, preparing students for global competition.

TDS: What upcoming new courses, labs, or collaborations will define your next academic year?

MNA: Next year FIU will launch a Financial Innovation Lab for data analytics and fintech, a Professional Skills Development Series through career services, and short industry courses on AI for Business and Sustainable Finance.