Safa akter Nolock, Jagannath University

The Jagannath University Career Club (JuUCC) recently organized a seminar on public speaking, all aimed at improving students communication skills and confidence in expressing themselves in front of an audience.

The seminar titled "The Art of Public Speaking" was held on June 12, 2023, featuring speaker Rafeed Elahi Chowdhury as the keynote speaker for the workshops. He shared techniques and guidelines to overcome stage fright, grab attention, and hold the audience's attention. This seminar aimed to enhance participants' public speaking and communication abilities by covering topics such as speech structure, body language, vocal delivery, and overcoming nervousness through interactive activities. The seminar focused on the importance of effective communication and provided insights into public speaking through the speaker's personal experiences. It also included a question-and-answer session, where students raised various challenges they face in public speaking. The speaker generously offered his own book as a gift to the individuals who posed the most thought-provoking questions. This timely seminar proved significant for the students of Jagannath University, nurturing their dormant talents.

The president of Jagannath University Career Club, Taspia Islam, shared her thought that "due to the lack of accurate information and guidance, many novice students are afraid of public speaking. Therefore, as part of the one-year skill development program in leadership development, we are organizing "The Art of Public Speaking." I firmly believe that through confidence-building and eliminating hesitations, students will become skilled and fearless in public speaking."

After this seminar, some of the participants shared their experiences. Kaniz Fatima Diba from the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism said, "The sessions were well-structured and packed with valuable information. The speakers were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly inspiring, sharing their personal experiences and offering practical tips to improve our public speaking abilities. Thank you Jagannath University Career Club seminar for us."

Another participant, Junaed Masud, said, "Finally, it can be said that the seminar was highly beneficial and significant for the general university students. It provided an opportune platform for students to voice their personal issues and find appropriate solutions. In the current corporate world, where competition is intense, knowledge alone is not sufficient; competence is also necessary."

The workshops concluded with a crest presented to the esteemed speaker and a group photo with all attendees.

After taking the entire session the guest speaker shared his thought “The participants are very enthusiastic in the entire program they connected with me with their inquisitive questions that encourage me a lot. It’s been a great experience for me to be a part of this seminar.”

Encompassing these seminars and workshops provided valuable opportunities for students to improve their public speaking skills and enhance their communication abilities. Jagannath University Career Club's dedication to fostering students' hidden talents and organizing career-oriented events is commendable. Students eagerly anticipate future workshops and seminars of this nature.