My recent academic visit to Daffodil International University (DIU), Bangladesh in February 2025 was an incredibly enriching experience, filled with opportunities for collaboration, student engagement, and institutional development. From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by the University’s international office and student representatives, who ensured that my stay was both smooth and comfortable.

During my visit, I engaged in discussions with faculty members about potential research collaborations between DIU and IMU University. It was exciting to see their enthusiasm for joint research initiatives, academic exchanges, and faculty interactions.

As part of this academic exchange, I also had the opportunity to deliver three lectures to students from the Department of Public Health. I spoke about neglected diseases identified by the World Health Organization (WHO), particularly fungal infections like blastomycosis, which are often underreported in Asia despite their clinical significance. Another lecture focused on biological warfare, delving into its historical and modern-day threats. We discussed preparedness strategies for public health professionals, the importance of international health regulations, and effective communication during outbreaks to prevent public panic. The students were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions and actively participating in discussions, which made the experience all the more rewarding.

I was also struck by DIU’s strong commitment to internationalisation. The visit coincided with their anniversary celebrations, bringing together academic delegates from various countries, from Europe and Asia. The discussions I had with faculty and delegates reinforced the importance of strengthening student exchange programmes and research collaborations. It was evident that DIU is dedicated to fostering a global academic environment.

Beyond the academic engagements, I also had the chance to explore some of Dhaka’s prominent landmarks, which gave me a deeper appreciation of Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage. DIU’s campus itself, located about an hour from the bustling city, spans approximately 125 acres and, accommodating over 20,000 students. I was particularly impressed by the School of Health Sciences, especially the Department of Public Health, which boasts a strong faculty of seven full-time clinicians. Their academic and research standards are well-recognised, with ongoing collaborations with Australian universities.

Looking back, my visit to DIU was a truly insightful and productive experience. It not only strengthened academic ties between DIU and IMU University but also opened up exciting avenues for future collaborations. These kinds of engagements are invaluable, as they contribute to global academic advancement while creating meaningful opportunities for both students and faculty. I look forward to seeing how our institutions can continue working together in the future.

Written by A/Prof Dr Fabian Davamani Amalraj, Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, IMU University