New Book Announcement: Digital Citizenship and Building a Responsible Online Presence

I am delighted to share the exciting news that my latest book, Digital Citizenship and Building a Responsible Online Presence, has been officially published by IGI Global Scientific Publishing, USA. This book is a comprehensive exploration of the principles, challenges, and opportunities of digital citizenship in today’s interconnected world.

About the Book

In the digital era, our online actions have far-reaching consequences, shaping our professional and personal reputations. With the increasing reliance on digital platforms for communication, education, and business, understanding the responsibilities of digital citizenship has never been more crucial.

This book provides in-depth insights into:
✅ The principles of responsible digital engagement
✅ Ethical considerations in online interactions
✅ Privacy and security challenges in the digital space
✅ The impact of social media and digital footprints
✅ Strategies to foster inclusive and safe digital communities

Publication Details

• Title: Digital Citizenship and Building a Responsible Online Presence
• Author: Dr. Hakikur Rahman
• Publisher: IGI Global
• Release Date: March 2025
• Pages: 460
• DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-6675-2
• ISBN (Hardcover): 9798369366752
• ISBN (Softcover): 9798369366769
• eISBN: 9798369366776

Why This Book Matters

With cybersecurity threats, misinformation, and online harassment becoming pressing concerns, the importance of digital responsibility cannot be overstated. This book serves as a guide for educators, students, professionals, and policymakers who seek to create a safer and more ethical online space.

Acknowledgments

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my co-researchers, contributors, and the entire team at IGI Global for their unwavering support in making this book a reality. Their dedication and expertise have been invaluable in shaping this publication.

Who Should Read This Book?

This book is ideal for:
📌 Educators and students in digital literacy and online ethics
📌 Researchers and academicians exploring digital transformation
📌 Policymakers and tech professionals shaping digital governance
📌 Social media users and content creators keen on ethical engagement

Final Thoughts

I am truly excited about this publication and hope it will contribute to meaningful discussions on digital responsibility and online ethics. I look forward to engaging with readers, receiving feedback, and collaborating on future research in this domain.

For more details or to get a copy, visit IGI Global's website or check the DOI link provided above.

💬 Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments! Let’s build a responsible and ethical digital world together!

#DigitalCitizenship #OnlinePresence #CyberEthics #DigitalLiteracy #AcademicResearch #ResponsibleTech #IGIGlobal #Publishing

 

Dr. Hakikur Rahman is a distinguished academic and editor with a career spanning over 30 years in computer science, knowledge management, and sustainable development. He has contributed extensively to academia through teaching, research, and editorial work. He has held positions at leading institutions, including BRAC University, the University of Minho in Portugal, Asian University of Bangladesh, and Presidency University in Bangladesh. His research interests include ICT4D, e-governance, AI, blockchain, and open innovation.

Dr. Rahman has authored and edited over 25 books, more than 50 book chapters, and contributed over 200 journal articles. His edited books include:

1.     Rahman, H. (2025). Digital Citizenship and Building a Responsible Online Presence, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9798369366752, To be published in 2025.

2.     Rahman, H. (2024). Blockchain Technology Applications in Knowledge Management, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9798369339565, 530pp.

3.     Rahman, H. (2021). Achieving Organizational Agility, Intelligence, and Resilience Through Information Systems, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9781799847991, 300pp.

4.     Rahman, H. (2021). Human-Computer Interaction and Technology Integration in Modern Society, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9781799858492, 305pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

5.     Rahman, H. (2020). Ubiquitous Technologies for Human Development and Knowledge Management, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9781799878445, 320pp.

6.     Rahman, H. (2016). Human Development and Interaction in the Age of Ubiquitous Technology, IGI Global, USA, ISBN 9781522505563, 384pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

7.     Rahman, H. & Dinis, R. (Eds.) (2014). Information Systems and Technology for Organizational Agility, Intelligence, and Resilience, co-edited with Dr. Rui Dinis, IGI Global, USA, ISBN-13: 978-1466659704, 355pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

8.     Rahman, H. & Ramos, I. (Eds.) (2013). Ethical Data Mining Applications for Socio-Economic Development, co-edited with Dr. Isabel Ramos, IGI Global, USA, May 2013, ISBN13: 9781466640788, 349pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

9.     Rahman et. al., (Eds.) (2012). Knowledge and Technologies in Innovative Information Systems: 7th Mediterranean Conference on Information Systems, MCIS 2012, Guimaraes, Portugal, September 8-10, 2012, Proceedings, LNBIP129, Springer, co-edited with Dr. Anabela Mesquita and Dr. Isabel Ramos, ISBN-13: 978-3642332432, 280pp.

10.  Rahman, H. (2012). Cases on Progressions and Challenges in ICT Utilization for Citizen-Centric Governance, IGI Global Reference book, IGI Global, USA, September, 2012. ISBN13: 9781466620711, 546pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

11.  Kumar, A.V.S. & Rahman, H. (Eds.) (2011). Mobile Computing Techniques in Emerging Markets: Systems, Applications and Services, co-edited with Dr. A.V. Senthil Kumar, IGI Global, USA, November 2011, ISBN13: 9781466600805, 376pp.

12.  Chhabra, S. & Rahman, H. (Eds.). (2011). Human Development and Global Advancements Through Information Communication Technologies: New Initiatives, co-edited with Dr. Shusheel Chhabra, IGI Global, USA, ISBN-13: 978-1609604974, 386pp.

13.  Rahman, H. & Ramos, I. (Eds.) (2011a). Cases on SMEs and Open Innovation: Applications and Investigations, co-edited with Dr. Isabel Ramos, IGI Global, USA, November 2011, ISBN13: 9781613503140, 296pp.

14.  Rahman, H. & Ramos, I. (Eds.) (2011b). SMEs and Open Innovation: Global Cases and Initiatives, co-edited with Dr. Isabel Ramos, IGI Global, USA, December 2011, ISBN13: 9781613505199, 356pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

15.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2010). Cases on Adoption, Diffusion and Evaluation of Global E-Governance Systems: Impact at the Grass Roots, Information Science Publishing, USA, July 2010, ISBN: 978-1-6169281, 350pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

16.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2009). Handbook of Research on E-Government Readiness for Information and Service Exchange, IGI Global, USA, July 2009, ISBN: 978-1-60566-671-6, 561pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

17.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2009). Social and Political Implications of Data Mining: Knowledge Management in E-Government, Information Science Publishing, USA, February 2009, ISBN: 978-1605662312, 378pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

18.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2008). Data Mining Applications for Empowering Knowledge Societies, Idea Group Inc., USA, ISBN 978-1-59904-657-0, May 2008, 300pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

19.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2008). Selected Readings on Global Information Technology: Contemporary Applications, Information Science Reference, USA, August 2008, ISBN: 978-1605661162, 516pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

20.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2007). Developing Successful ICT Strategies: Competitive Advantages in a Global Knowledge-Driven Society, Idea Group Inc., USA, ISBN 978-1-59904-654-9, August 2007, 397pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

21.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2006). Information and Communication Technologies for Economic and Regional Developments, Idea Group Inc., USA, ISBN 1-59904-186-3, December 2006, 300pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

22.  Rahman, H. (Ed.) (2005). Empowering Marginal Communities with Information Networking, Idea Group Inc., USA, ISBN 1-59140-699-3, November 2005, 363pp. Indexed in: SCOPUS

Dr. Rahman continues to contribute significantly to research and publishing, shaping discussions in his fields of expertise through his editorial work and publications.

 

Celebrating a Milestone: 14 of My Edited Books Now Indexed by SCOPUS

As an academic and editor, contributing to the body of knowledge through scholarly publications has always been a passion of mine. I am thrilled to share that 14 of my edited books are now indexed by SCOPUS, a significant recognition of their impact and quality in the academic community. This achievement reflects the dedication and collaboration of researchers, authors, and reviewers who have worked together to advance knowledge in various fields.

The Significance of SCOPUS Indexing

SCOPUS is one of the most reputable abstract and citation databases for peer-reviewed literature. It provides global recognition and increased visibility to scholarly works, ensuring that researchers and practitioners worldwide can access and cite them. Having my books indexed by SCOPUS is a testament to the rigorous research, innovative ideas, and academic contributions they encompass.

A Look at Some of My SCOPUS-Indexed Books

Over the years, I have had the privilege of editing numerous books that explore cutting-edge topics in technology, AI, blockchain, knowledge management, and sustainable development. Here are some of the notable SCOPUS-indexed books:

✅ Human-Computer Interaction and Technology Integration in Modern Society
✅ Human Development and Interaction in the Age of Ubiquitous Technology
✅ Information Systems and technology for Organizational Agility, Intelligence, and Resilience
✅ Cases on Progressions and Challenges in ICT Utilization for Citizen-Centric Governance
✅ Cases on Adoption, Diffusion and Evaluation of Global E-Governance Systems: Impact at the Grass Roots

These books, among others, contribute to the growing knowledge base in their respective domains and have been recognized for their scholarly significance through SCOPUS indexing.

Acknowledging the Contributors

This milestone would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of authors, peer reviewers, co-editors, and publishing teams who dedicated their expertise and efforts to these projects. The collaborative nature of academic publishing is what makes it so rewarding, and I am grateful to have worked with brilliant minds from around the world.

Looking Ahead

While this achievement is a moment of pride, it also serves as motivation to continue pushing the boundaries of research and knowledge dissemination. I look forward to working on more impactful projects, engaging with scholars globally, and fostering meaningful discussions that drive innovation.

To my fellow academics, researchers, and students, let’s keep striving for excellence in research and publishing. If you’re interested in collaborating or learning more about my work, feel free to connect with me.

🚀 Here’s to more knowledge-sharing and academic growth!

#AcademicAchievement #SCOPUS #EditedBooks #ResearchImpact #AI #Blockchain #BigData #KnowledgeManagement #SustainableDevelopment

 

Call for Chapters:

The Ethical Landscape of AI – Contribute to a Groundbreaking Book on AI Ethics

 

Introduction: As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its ethical implications become more profound and complex. From privacy concerns to bias in decision-making, AI presents challenges that demand global discourse and collaborative solutions. We are excited to announce a call for chapters for the upcoming book, The Ethical Landscape of AI: Global Issues and Solutions, which aims to explore the multifaceted ethical dilemmas posed by AI technologies. This book seeks to bring together researchers, practitioners, and thought leaders to examine critical issues and propose actionable solutions.

 

About the Book: Edited by Dr. Hakikur Rahman of Presidency University, Bangladesh, this book will provide a comprehensive examination of AI ethics, addressing concerns such as fairness, transparency, accountability, and societal impact. The book will offer interdisciplinary insights, including technical, philosophical, legal, and policy perspectives, to ensure a holistic understanding of AI ethics.

 

Objectives: The primary goal of The Ethical Landscape of AI: Global Issues and Solutions is to foster a deep understanding of the ethical challenges posed by AI and propose responsible frameworks for its development and deployment. Specifically, the book aims to:

·        Identify key ethical dilemmas associated with AI applications across various domains, such as healthcare, finance, education, security, and governance.

·        Provide case studies and best practices that highlight real-world challenges and solutions.

·        Bridge the gap between theoretical discussions and practical applications of AI ethics.

·        Promote responsible AI development by exploring regulatory frameworks and ethical design principles.

·        Encourage global collaboration and policy innovation to ensure AI contributes to equitable and sustainable development.

 

Recommended Topics: We invite contributions on topics including, but not limited to:

·        Ethical implications of AI bias and fairness

·        Data privacy and security concerns in AI systems

·        Transparency and accountability in AI decision-making

·        Societal and economic impacts of AI deployment

·        AI governance, policy, and regulatory frameworks

·        Human-AI collaboration and ethical considerations

·        AI ethics in healthcare, finance, education, and other sectors

 

Submission Guidelines: We welcome researchers and practitioners to submit a chapter proposal of 1,000 to 2,000 words by March 16, 2025, outlining the mission and scope of their proposed chapter. Authors will be notified about their proposal status by March 30, 2025. Full chapters (minimum of 10,000 words, including references) are due by June 29, 2025. All submissions will undergo a double-anonymized peer review process to ensure high-quality contributions.

 

There are no submission or acceptance fees for manuscripts submitted to this publication.

For manuscript guidelines, please visit: https://www.igi-global.com/publish/contributor-resources/before-you-write

 

How to Submit: All proposals should be submitted via the eEditorial Discovery® online submission manager: https://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/8533

 

Publisher Information This book will be published by IGI Global Scientific Publishing, a leading international academic publisher specializing in reference books, scholarly journals, and electronic databases. IGI Global is known for its expertise in publishing cutting-edge research across various disciplines, including information science, technology, business, healthcare, education, and engineering.

For more details, visit: https://www.igi-global.com/

 

Final Thoughts: This book presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the critical discussion on AI ethics and help shape the responsible future of artificial intelligence. If you have valuable insights, case studies, or research findings on AI ethics, we encourage you to submit your chapter proposal and be a part of this important global conversation.

 

For any inquiries, please contact:

Dr. Hakikur Rahman
Presidency University, Bangladesh
Email: email@hakik.org

February 16, 2025

 

We look forward to your contributions and to shaping a responsible AI future together!

 

Call for Chapters: The Ethical Landscape of AI – Contribute to a Groundbreaking Book on AI Ethics

 

Introduction: As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its ethical implications become more profound and complex. From privacy concerns to bias in decision-making, AI presents challenges that demand global discourse and collaborative solutions. We are excited to announce a call for chapters for the upcoming book, The Ethical Landscape of AI: Global Issues and Solutions, which aims to explore the multifaceted ethical dilemmas posed by AI technologies. This book seeks to bring together researchers, practitioners, and thought leaders to examine critical issues and propose actionable solutions.

 

About the Book: Edited by Dr. Hakikur Rahman of Presidency University, Bangladesh, this book will provide a comprehensive examination of AI ethics, addressing concerns such as fairness, transparency, accountability, and societal impact. The book will offer interdisciplinary insights, including technical, philosophical, legal, and policy perspectives, to ensure a holistic understanding of AI ethics.

 

Objectives: The primary goal of The Ethical Landscape of AI: Global Issues and Solutions is to foster a deep understanding of the ethical challenges posed by AI and propose responsible frameworks for its development and deployment. Specifically, the book aims to:

·        Identify key ethical dilemmas associated with AI applications across various domains, such as healthcare, finance, education, security, and governance.

·        Provide case studies and best practices that highlight real-world challenges and solutions.

·        Bridge the gap between theoretical discussions and practical applications of AI ethics.

·        Promote responsible AI development by exploring regulatory frameworks and ethical design principles.

·        Encourage global collaboration and policy innovation to ensure AI contributes to equitable and sustainable development.

 

Recommended Topics: We invite contributions on topics including, but not limited to:

·        Ethical implications of AI bias and fairness

·        Data privacy and security concerns in AI systems

·        Transparency and accountability in AI decision-making

·        Societal and economic impacts of AI deployment

·        AI governance, policy, and regulatory frameworks

·        Human-AI collaboration and ethical considerations

·        AI ethics in healthcare, finance, education, and other sectors

 

Submission Guidelines: We welcome researchers and practitioners to submit a chapter proposal of 1,000 to 2,000 words by March 16, 2025, outlining the mission and scope of their proposed chapter. Authors will be notified about their proposal status by March 30, 2025. Full chapters (minimum of 10,000 words, including references) are due by June 29, 2025. All submissions will undergo a double-anonymized peer review process to ensure high-quality contributions.

There are no submission or acceptance fees for manuscripts submitted to this publication.

For manuscript guidelines, please visit: https://www.igi-global.com/publish/contributor-resources/before-you-write

 

How to Submit: All proposals should be submitted via the eEditorial Discovery® online submission manager: https://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/8533

 

Publisher Information This book will be published by IGI Global Scientific Publishing, a leading international academic publisher specializing in reference books, scholarly journals, and electronic databases. IGI Global is known for its expertise in publishing cutting-edge research across various disciplines, including information science, technology, business, healthcare, education, and engineering.

For more details, visit: https://www.igi-global.com/

 

Final Thoughts: This book presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the critical discussion on AI ethics and help shape the responsible future of artificial intelligence. If you have valuable insights, case studies, or research findings on AI ethics, we encourage you to submit your chapter proposal and be a part of this important global conversation.

 

For any inquiries, please contact: Dr. Hakikur Rahman
Presidency University, Bangladesh
Email: email@hakik.org

 

We look forward to your contributions and to shaping a responsible AI future together!

 

Book: "Blockchain Technology Applications in Knowledge Management"- A Game-Changer for the Future

Blockchain Technology Applications in Knowledge Management, my latest book published by IGI Global, is officially out! 🎉 This book explores how blockchain technology is shaping the future of knowledge management, offering fresh insights into this exciting intersection.

In today’s digital era, managing knowledge effectively and securely has become more important than ever. Blockchain technology, with its promise of decentralized, transparent, and secure solutions, is rapidly transforming how information is shared and protected across various sectors. In this blog, I’ll dive into the essence of the book and its significance for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers alike.

What This Book Is All About

Blockchain Technology Applications in Knowledge Management is designed to provide a deep understanding of how blockchain can be integrated into knowledge management systems. The book covers the core concepts, frameworks, and real-world applications of blockchain in enhancing the management and sharing of knowledge.

Key areas covered include:

• Transparency and Data Security: How blockchain can provide tamper-proof, transparent records for managing critical knowledge and data.
• Collaboration and Sharing: Exploring how blockchain enables secure, decentralized collaboration, making it easier to share and verify information across stakeholders.
• Industry Applications: Case studies and practical applications of blockchain in industries such as healthcare, education, and finance.

The book is structured to be useful for a diverse audience—ranging from academic researchers looking for a deeper theoretical understanding of blockchain's impact on knowledge management, to professionals seeking practical applications in their respective fields.

Why Blockchain and Knowledge Management?

The rapid rise of digital transformation has brought forth the need for more efficient and secure ways to manage and share knowledge. Traditional knowledge management systems are often centralized, prone to manipulation, and vulnerable to data breaches. Blockchain, with its decentralized nature, offers a powerful solution to address these challenges by ensuring transparency, security, and trust in the data-sharing process.

In this book, we explore how blockchain’s inherent properties—such as immutability, cryptographic security, and consensus algorithms—can provide innovative solutions to these age-old problems. By decentralizing the storage and distribution of knowledge, blockchain technology eliminates single points of failure and builds trust among users.

Key Takeaways for Researchers and Professionals

• For Academics: This book provides a solid theoretical framework for those studying the intersection of blockchain and knowledge management. It offers insights into how emerging technologies are reshaping traditional management practices and presents research-driven solutions.
• For Professionals: Those working in industries such as healthcare, education, or finance will find practical examples and case studies illustrating how blockchain can be used to improve collaboration and enhance the efficiency of knowledge management systems.
• For Policymakers: The book outlines key policy recommendations for integrating blockchain technology into knowledge management practices across different sectors, providing a roadmap for future innovation and regulation.

A Look Inside: Case Studies and Real-World Applications

One of the unique features of the book is its focus on real-world case studies. These case studies demonstrate how blockchain is already being used to solve complex challenges in knowledge management. From secure academic publishing to blockchain-based healthcare data sharing, the book showcases how blockchain is driving change in various domains.

Where to Find the Book

Blockchain Technology Applications in Knowledge Management is available for purchase directly through IGI Global and other major book retailers. Whether you’re a researcher, educator, or industry professional, this book will provide valuable insights to help you navigate the growing field of blockchain technology and its applications in knowledge management.

What’s Next?

As blockchain technology continues to evolve, its potential for reshaping knowledge management is immense. I am excited to see how the ideas presented in this book will spark further discussions and innovations in the field. I encourage you to share your thoughts and feedback—let’s keep the conversation going!

Blogs on Ansted University - 002

Ansted University – 1:

বলেছিলাম Ansted University নিয়ে লেখা শুরু করব। তা শুরু করলাম। তবে একটু গোড়া থেকেই শুরু করি। ঘটনাটা ১৯৯৬ সালের। আমি হংকংয়ে গিয়েছি একটা গবেষণার কাজে। তখন সাধারণত হংকং ওপেন ইউনিভার্সিটি তে যাওয়া পড়তো। (পরে অবশ্য Hong Kong Metropolitan University নামকরণ হয়।)

সেই সময়ে হংকংয়ে একটা সফটওয়্যার এক্সিবিশনে গিয়েছিলাম। সেখানেই কথায় কথায় পরিচয় হয় ডক্টর রজার হাওয়ের সাথে। সেই পরিচয়ের সুবাদেই আমাদের সাথে যোগাযোগ হত। তখন দেশে ইমেইল ব্যবস্থা কেবল শুরু হয়েছে আর ইমেইলেই যোগাযোগ রেখেছিলাম আমরা।

এর পরের ঘটনাটা ১৯৯৮ সালের। আমি তখন বাংলাদেশ ওপেন ইউনিভার্সিটিতে কম্পিউটার বিভাগের প্রধান হিসেবে কাজ করছিলাম। তখন একদিন একটা ইমেইল আসলো ডক্টর রজার এর কাছ থেকে। তিনি অনেক কিছু জানতে চেয়েছিলেন। তবে একটা প্রশ্ন উনি করেছিলেন, তুমি কি আরো হায়ার স্টাডি করতে ইন্টারেস্টেড। আমি বলেছিলাম, হ্যাঁ।

উনি তখন জানিয়েছিলেন যে আমরা একটা নতুন বিশ্ববিদ্যালয় খুলতে যাচ্ছি। এর ছাত্র হতে চাও? অবশ্যই আমার উত্তর ছিল, হ্যাঁ এবং বলেছিলেন যে, গবেষণাধর্মী কোন কাজ থাকলে তাহলে সেখানে ভর্তি হওয়া যেতে পারে।

সেখান থেকেই আমার এনস্টেড ইউনিভার্সিটির সাথে যোগাযোগের সূচনা এবং আমার গবেষণাধর্মী কাজ শুরু করে আমার প্রথম পিএইচডির প্রাপ্তি ২০০১ সালের অগাস্ট মাসে।

এখানে একটা কথা না বললেই নয়। আমি ডক্টর রজারকে বলেছিলাম, আমার পিএইচডি ডিগ্রী করার আর্থিক সামর্থ নেই। উনি আমাকে আশ্বত্ব করেছিলেন, বলেছিলেন উনি আমার ডিগ্রীর জন্যে UN থেকে স্কলারশীপের ব্যবস্থা করবেন। উনি সফল হয়েছিলেন বলেই আজকে আমি Ansted University-এর একজন গর্বিত ডিগ্রীধারী।

কেউ কেউ আমাকে প্রশ্ন করেন, আপনার এত ভালো কেরিয়ার থাকতে ঐরকম একটা ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে কেন পিএইচডি ডিগ্রী নিলেন? তার উত্তরে আজকে বলছি আমি যখন মাস্টার ডিগ্রী করি তখনই পিএইচডির জন্য আমেরিকাতে একাধিক ভার্সিটিতে এপ্লাই করেছিলাম। আমার স্পষ্ট মনে আছে তিন/চারটা ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে কাগজও এসেছিল। লেবাননে তখন প্রচন্ডরকম গৃহযুদ্ধ আমি আর বেশিদিন থাকতে না পেরে আমার ডিগ্রী কোনরকমে সম্পন্ন করেই দেশে ফেরত আসি।

আমি আমেরিকান ইউনিভার্সিটি অফ বৈরুত (American University of Beirut) থেকে মাস্টার ডিগ্রী করেছি আপনারা আমার ঘনিষ্ঠরা সবাই জানেন।

দেশে ফেরত আসার পর, নেভাডা ইউনিভার্সিটির (Nevada University) আই টোয়েন্টি (I20) বাংলাদেশের ঠিকানায় আসে।

আপনারা অনেকেই অনেকের জীবন কাহিনী শুনে শুনেছেন। আমার জীবন কাহিনী শোনানো হয়নি তাই হয়তো ব্যাপারটা অনেকের কাছেই বোধধম্য হয় না যে আমি কেন আমেরিকার কোন গন্যমান্য ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে পিএইচডি করতে পারিনি।

সত্যি বলতে কি আমার পারিবারিক অবস্থা তখন তেমন ভালো ছিল না। তাই কোনও ভালো ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকে পিএইচডি করার সুযোগ তখন ছিল না। এমনকি আমার আই টোয়েন্টি ফর্মে স্পন্সরশিপ হিসাবে সাইন করার মত কোন ব্যক্তি খুঁজে পাইনি। তাই আর আমেরিকার নেভাডা ইউনিভার্সিটিতে পিএইচডি করতে যাওয়া আমার জীবনে হয়নি। (এটা নিয়ে আর একদিন লিখবো।)

যাগগে, তাতে তো জীবন থেমে থাকে নি। আমার জীবনে যতটুকু পাওয়া আমি মনে করি আমার এনস্টেড ইউনিভার্সিটির পিএইচডি ডিগ্রি অর্জন করার পরই পাওয়া। এতে আমার জীবনে নতুন মোড় সৃষ্টি করে। আমার যত গবেষণা, আমার যত লেখা, আমার গবেষণা কর্মকাণ্ড সমূহ- সবই এই ইউনিভার্সিটি থেকেই শুরু হয়েছিল।

আমি গর্বের সাথে বলতে পারি সেই ১৯৯৬ সালে থেকে ইন্টারঅ্যাকটিভ লার্নিং বলুন, ডিসট্যান্স লার্নিং বলুন, অনলাইন লার্নিং বলুন- যে কাজ শুরু করেছিলাম সেই মশালটি এখনো জ্বালিয়ে রেখেছি এবং সেই মশালটির আলো আমি দেশে-বিদেশে তথা সারা পৃথিবীব্যাপী ছড়িয়ে দিয়েছি।

এই প্রসঙ্গে আমি বলে রাখি। আমি সেই ৯৬ সালেও বলেছিলাম যে আমরা এই প্রক্ষিতে এখনো ২০ বছর পিছিয়ে আছি। আমি হয়তো মনে হয় দুই হাজার সালেও বলেছিলাম যে আমরা এই প্রেক্ষিতে এখনো ২০ বছর পিছিয়ে আছি। আমার মনে হয় আমি আজকে দাঁড়িয়েও বলতে পারি যে আমরা এখনো এই প্রেক্ষিতে ২০ বছর পিছিয়ে আছি।

কথা প্রসঙ্গে আরো বলছি এমন দিন আসবে পৃথিবীতে যেদিন এই ইট পাথরের কংক্রিটের দেয়ালে ঘেরা ইউনিভার্সিটি গুলা শুধু গবেষণার কাজে লিপ্ত হবে। আর ছাত্র-ছাত্রীরা ছড়িয়ে ছিটিয়ে থাকবে যেখানে সেখানে। তারা কাজ করতে করতে লেখাপড়া করবে, তারা গাড়ি চালাতে চালাতে লেখাপড়া করবে, তারা বাসে-ট্রেনে-বিমানে যাত্রী হিসেবে বসে লেখাপড়া করবে, লেখাপড়ার ডাইমেনশনটা কোনো নির্দিষ্ট সীমা রেখার ভিতরে আর বাঁধা থাকবে না। সেদিন আসতে বেশি দেরি নেই। ইতিমধ্যেই শুরু হয়ে গেছে। চারিদিকে চোখ-কান খুলে তাকিয়ে দেখুন। সারা পৃথিবীময় সেটা শুরু হয়ে গেছে।

মরুঝড়ে উটের মত বালুতে মুখ লুকিয়ে রাখলে কিন্তু পৃথিবী থেমে থাকে না। পৃথিবী তার নিজের গতিতেই চলে....

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