In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Nasrin Jabin, an exceptional scholar whose journey from the University of Dhaka to a globally recognized academic in the United States exemplifies resilience, vision, and purpose. A proud recipient of both the Dean’s Award (2017) and the Tajuddin Ahmad Peace Gold Medal, she has consistently exemplified excellence, humility, and purpose ; whether studying in Dhaka, authoring গবেষণা প্রারম্ভীকা to empower young researchers or now pursuing her PhD at Washington State University.
YSSE: Apu, first of all I would like to know about your childhood and education.
Nasrin Jabin: Thank you, Areeba. I was born and brought up in Dhaka. The family I was born in, I think was a blessed place for me. They nurtured the belief in me that education can transform life and I started believing in it from a very early age. So, I grew up with limited resources but there were limitless support resources. From childhood, I have held a firm belief that education is a transformative force. It can elevate the quality of life. This belief inspired me to approach my studies with purpose and discipline. Yet, my life has never been limited to academics alone. I have always eom the very beginning of my life, I believed that education can enhance the quality of life and I realized the importance of studying properly. Apart from studying I did a lot of other activities. I used to love sports and I still do. I love playing badminton and even after I started my PhD here, I am actively involved in playing Badminton. I love and enjoy doing any colorful activities.I am blessed that I had a carefree childhood. Now, if I talk about my younger self, during that time books and arts were my companion. I proudly say that I am a big fan of Humayuan Ahmed and Ahmed Sofa and I have read every single book of them. Also, I would say reading these books helped me a lot later in my life and made me learn to question the layered realities of our society.
YSSE: We know that you were the President of Dhaka University Research Society (DURS) for two consecutive terms. How did your journey with DURS begin and how was the experience ?
Nasrin Jabin: My journey with DURS actually began quite as an observer. I used to observe those who were connected with various clubs at our university. I am someone who actually believes that research is not for the privileged crew, though it is portrayed in our society in that way.
DURS was formally launched on December 6, 2016, and I was involved from its earliest days. I started serving as a general member of Recognizing my dedication, the Moderator entrusted me with the role of President. I served DURS two consecutive terms. I can remember those colorful and busy days. During my tenure, our team organized what I believe was the 1st International Student Research Conference. This kind of conference was held in Bangladesh for the first time where undergraduate students were welcome to present their research ideas. To speak honestly, my goal was clear. I wanted to foster a research culture that is inclusive,locally rooted, and globally conscious. Leading DURS was more than a leadership role. It was a commitment to empowering voices and inspiring changes. Today, it is rewarding to see bright minds continuing to work tirelessly toward a transformative future for our society.
YSSE: What sparked your interest in research?
Nasrin Jabin: Actually, my passion for research grew from field experiences. As a Dhaka University undergraduate student living at Mohammadpur, I used to pay frequent visits to the Geneva Camp in Mohammadpur. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when everyone was trapped in home, I saw them celebrating life without fear. My observation made me deeply moved by the community’s resilience despite multiple layers of exclusion, like being marginalized, urban poor, and financially deprived. I often spoke with people in similar circumstances near Dhakae. These encounters revealed how policies often fail to reflect real needs, leaving such voices unheard. I came to see research not merely as an academic pursuit but as a tool for social justice. It can document stories, expose barriers, and advocate for positive change. This conviction led to my published journal article on Dalit women focusing on their extreme marginalization they are carrying years after years.
YSSE: you have been awarded the most prestigious Deans Award 2017, The Tajuddin Ahmed Peace Gold Medal and many other scholarships and awards. We would love to hear the story behind this and how it has motivated you to move forward.
Nasrin Jabin: First of all, I believe there is no room for self-complacency in receiving awards and recognition. Each award represents countless hours of hard work, long nights, and a heart driven by purpose. I am grateful that my efforts have been mic excellence, as well as a hall scholarship for both co-curricular engagement and academic performance. I have also been recognized for my contributions to volunteer work. These awards have not only motivated me to continue but have also reinforced my commitment to peace and social change. I have never pursued my work for material gain; my focus has always been on self-enlightenment and making a meaningful contribution to society. The institutional scholarships, which often came with significant financial support, were especially helpful throughout my academic journey. Having benefited from such opportunities since childhood, I now aspire to establish a scholarship in my locality to support financially disadvantaged children who are eager to study. I believe this will be a small way to give back and help create new pathways for others.
YSSE: As one of the co-authors of (গবেষণা প্রারম্ভীকা),could you please share what inspired its creation and the driving force behind its message?
Nasrin Jabin: Actually, it is my brain child. Of course, I am one of the editors of this book, but from the concept to bring this book on the market, it was only me working tirelessly. This book is a dream I carried for years. As a student, I was deeply involved in mentoring and volunteering in various research-based programs, I constantly met brilliant minds who lack basic guidance on how to begin their research journey. I always felt there was a need for resources that speak in their own language that will be simple and rooted in our culture. We tried to make it as simple as our handbook or notebook. I believe presenting something in an easier and simpler way is an art. The idea for this book emerged from my desire to create something that would open doors for those who feel that research is “not meant for us.” We are now working on its second edition and hope to publish it at the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela in 2026.
It’s been a wonderful opportunity to hear how Nasrin’s early journey from earning top academic honors to launching গবেষণা প্রারম্ভীকা has shaped her path. In our next instalment, we will explore her PhD experiences, the hurdles she’s overcome and the exciting vision she’s building for the future. Stay tuned for Part 2!
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Writer,
Areeba Ibnat Mamun
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE