The atmosphere at North South University was electric earlier this week as a full house of students and tech enthusiasts gathered for a highly anticipated seminar on the fundamentals of modern logic. The event, titled “Computational Thinking and Problem Solving,” aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical computer science and practical analytical skills. Attendees arrived in droves to catch a glimpse of the field’s most respected pioneers, signaling a massive appetite for high-level academic discourse within the local student community.
The keynote was originally set to be delivered by the esteemed Dr. (HP) Valentina Dagienė, whose reputation for advancing informatics education precedes her globally. While her presence alone was a highlight for many, the physical toll of international travel and the legendary congestion of Dhaka traffic unfortunately left her feeling unwell after several hours of engagement. Despite the setback, her brief appearance provided a spark of inspiration that set the tone for the rest of the afternoon.
Stepping in to lead the session was Dr. Mohammad Kaykobad, who managed to rescue the program with remarkable grace and intellectual vigor. Known for his ability to transform dense technical concepts into relatable narratives, Dr. Kaykobad delivered a lecture that was as humorous as it was profound. He steered the conversation toward the vital necessity for students to sharpen their analytical blades, arguing that the ability to decompose complex problems is a universal skill that transcends the boundaries of coding or engineering.
A central theme of the discussion was the importance of competitive engagement. Dr. Kaykobad emphasized that participating in a wide array of problem-solving contests is not merely about winning trophies but about building the mental resilience required for the modern workforce. He encouraged the audience to seek out challenges that push their cognitive limits, noting that the “muscle” of logic only grows through consistent and varied exercise.
The session concluded on a high note, with Dr. Kaykobad expressing a sincere desire to return to North South University for a more extended workshop in the future. He thanked the participants for their patience and their infectious curiosity, which remained undiminished throughout the transition. The NSU ACM Student Chapter, the organizers behind the success, reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a robust culture of learning and looks forward to bringing more global perspectives to the campus.