Dr. Jamilur Reza Choudhury (Engineer and Educator)

Dr. Jamilur Reza Choudhury

• Born: November 15, 1943, Sylhet, British India (now Bangladesh)
• Died: April 28, 2020, Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Role: Civil Engineer, Academic Leader, National Professor of Bangladesh
• Key Contributions:
  • Early Life and Education: Dr. Jamilur Reza Choudhury was born into an educated family in Sylhet. He excelled academically and pursued civil engineering at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). He completed his Bachelor’s degree in 1966 and later earned his Master’s and Ph.D. degrees from the University of California, Berkeley.
  • Academic Career: Dr. Choudhury had a long and distinguished career in academia, serving as a professor in the Civil Engineering Department at BUET. He also held prestigious positions, including the Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University from 2001 to 2006. His commitment to education and research contributed significantly to the advancement of engineering education in Bangladesh.
  • Research and Contributions: A renowned expert in structural engineering, Dr. Choudhury conducted extensive research in various areas, including earthquake engineering, structural dynamics, and disaster management. His research findings have been instrumental in developing safer construction practices and enhancing the resilience of infrastructure in Bangladesh.
  • Leadership and Influence: As a respected academic and engineer, Dr. Choudhury played a crucial role in shaping policies related to engineering education and practice in Bangladesh. He served as a member of several national committees and contributed to the development of engineering curricula, standards, and regulations in the country.
  • Recognition and Awards: Dr. Choudhury received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Independence Day Award, Bangladesh’s highest state award in 2018 for his contributions to education and engineering. He was also honored with various awards for his research and academic achievements.
  • Legacy: Dr. Jamilur Reza Choudhury is remembered as a pioneer in civil engineering education in Bangladesh. His dedication to nurturing future generations of engineers and his significant contributions to structural engineering have left a lasting impact on the field.
  • Cultural and Social Contributions: Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Choudhury was actively involved in social and cultural initiatives. He emphasized the importance of integrating engineering with community development and sustainability, advocating for a holistic approach to education and social responsibility.
• Famous Quote: “Engineering is not just about building structures; it’s about building a better society.”