The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DEA), a non-formal education and learning framework globally recognized across more than 120 countries, supporting young people to find their purpose, place and passion in the world, has been proactively empowering the youth of Bangladesh to develop their resilience, adaptability, creativity, communication, problem solving, and decision-making through volunteering, physical activity, skills development, expedition, and a residential project such as since 2008. AIUB has been a pioneering part of the program for nearly 2 decades, and as a part of the award’s three progressive levels of bronze, silver, gold, the participants of DEA-AIUB embarked on yet another adventurous journey and successfully completed the endeavor.
From the 8th – 11th January 2025, a group of 30 enthusiastic students of AIUB, accompanied by two university officials, undertook a trip to CampinCox, located in Cox Bazaar, the longest uninterrupted naturally occurring sea beach in the world. The tour aimed to foster personal growth, leadership development, and a sense of community among participants. Over the 4-day excursion, students engaged in various outdoor activities, skill-building sessions, and teamwork challenges designed to align with the core values of the prestigious award program. CampinCox, a seaside adventure camp, offered a perfect blend of natural beauty and a challenging environment that tested the participants’ survival instincts to perseverance under pressure outside of their comfort zone. Activities included hiking, camping, team-building exercises, and workshops that promoted independence and collaboration. The experience allowed participants to enhance their confidence, develop new skills, and gain a deeper appreciation for nature and community service.
This initiative was a testament to AIUB’s commitment to fostering holistic education and empowering students to become well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society. The participants returned with valuable memories, enriched skills, and a renewed sense of purpose, embodying the true spirit of DEA. The tour was not just an opportunity for personal growth but also a platform to showcase DEA-AIUB’s dedication to nurturing global citizens. It was a transformative experience that will remain etched in the minds of all participants, inspiring them to strive for excellence in the years to come.