Sunday, September 29, 2024

General Waker-uz-Zaman: A Distinguished Military Leader

General Waker-uz-Zaman: A Distinguished Military Leader

General Waker-uz-Zaman, born on September 16, 1966, is a four-star general with an illustrious career in the Bangladesh Army. General Waker-Uz-Zaman Assumes Duties as Chief of Army Staff - Date: June 23, 2024Let’s explore his journey:

General Waker-uz-Zaman
General Waker-uz-Zaman, OSP SGP psc

Early Life and Education

Waker-uz-Zaman hails from a highly educated and affluent Bengali Muslim family. His roots trace back to Sherpur District in the Mymensingh Division. His father, Asad-uz-Zaman, was a respected district judge, while his paternal grandfather, Fazlur Rahman, earned the prestigious title of Khan Bahadur from the British for his national service. Even Waker-uz-Zaman’s maternal grandfather, Sadiq Khan, received the same honor.

His educational path led him to the Defence Services Command and Staff College and the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the United Kingdom. There, he honed his military acumen, earning a master’s degree in defense studies from Bangladesh and another from King’s College, University of London.

Military Career

Waker-uz-Zaman’s journey as a soldier began when he was commissioned on December 20, 1985, from the 13th Long Course at the Bangladesh Military Academy. Throughout his distinguished career, he contributed significantly to the armed forces. He taught at various institutions, including the Non-Commissioned Officer’s Academy, the School of Infantry and Tactics, and the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operation Training1.

His service extended beyond national borders. Waker-uz-Zaman participated in two UN peacekeeping missions: UNMIL I and UNAVEM. These experiences enriched his leadership skills and global perspective.

Rising Through the Ranks

Waker-uz-Zaman’s ascent within the Bangladesh Army was marked by key appointments:

1. 15th Principal Staff Officer of Armed Forces Division: His role in this position showcased his ability to coordinate and manage military affairs at the highest level.

2. Chief of General Staff (CGS): Before becoming the CAS, he served as the CGS, demonstrating his strategic vision and operational expertise.

3. Chief of Army Staff (CAS): On June 23, 2024, Waker-uz-Zaman assumed the mantle of CAS, leading the Bangladesh Army during a critical period. His tenure coincided with the Non-cooperation movement protests, and he made headlines by announcing the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024.

Inference

Remember, behind every uniform lies a person with a rich history and a commitment to duty.  General Waker-uz-Zaman’s journey—from a young officer to the helm of the Bangladesh Army—reflects dedication, leadership, and service. His legacy continues to shape the nation’s defense landscape, and his story inspires generations of soldiers.

A Distinguished Journey: General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s Rise to Leadership

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, OSP, SGP, PSC, stepped into the role of Chief of Army Staff for the Bangladesh Army on June 23, 2024. An esteemed alumnus of the Bangladesh Military Academy, he was commissioned into the Corps of Infantry on December 20, 1985. With over three and a half decades of service, General Waker brings a wealth of experience from key command, staff, and instructional positions.

Command and Leadership

Throughout his illustrious military career, General Waker has left an indelible mark. Notably, he commanded an Infantry Battalion, the sole Independent Infantry Brigade within the BD Army and an entire Infantry Division. His leadership extended beyond the battlefield, as he held critical staff roles at various levels. These included serving as a staff officer in an Infantry Brigade, contributing to the School of Infantry and Tactics, and operating from Army Headquarters.

Instruction and Academia

General Waker’s commitment to excellence also shines through his instructional roles. He distinguished himself as an instructor at the School of Infantry and Tactics, the Non-commissioned Officers’ Academy, and the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operations Training. His dedication to shaping the next generation of military leaders underscores his passion for education and professional development.

International Engagements

As the head of the Armed Forces Division, General Waker played a direct role in UN Peacekeeping Affairs for the Bangladesh Armed Forces. His commitment to gender equality led to his nomination as a Gender Champion and Advocate for UN Peacekeeping Affairs in Bangladesh. Additionally, he chaired the ‘Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention,’ demonstrating his expertise in matters of global significance.

General Waker’s international service included two tours of duty under the Blue Helmet: one as an observer in UNAVEM (Angola) and another as part of UNMIL (Liberia). His contributions extended beyond borders, reflecting his dedication to peace and stability.

Honors and Recognition

General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s dedication to modernizing the army did not go unnoticed. He had the rare privilege of commanding the National Victory Day Parade on three consecutive occasions. His outstanding contributions earned him the prestigious ‘Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP)’ and the ‘Army Medal of Glory (SGP).’ These accolades underscore his impact on the armed forces.

Beyond the Uniform

Outside the military arena, General Waker remains an engaging speaker, participating in seminars and symposiums both domestically and internationally. His love for games and sports provides a well-rounded perspective, and he finds joy in family life. Happily married to Sarahnaz Kamalika Zaman, he is the proud father of two daughters: Samiha Raisa Zaman and Shayeera Ibnat Zaman.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s journey exemplifies dedication, leadership, and service—a beacon for aspiring officers and a testament to the strength of the Bangladesh Army.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman: A Compassionate Leader

General Waker-Uz-Zaman, OSP, SGP, PSC, embodies the essence of leadership through his multifaceted contributions. From his early school days, he demonstrated exceptional talent and a commitment to service. Here are some key aspects that define his remarkable character:

Community Engagement:

General Waker-Uz-Zaman is deeply connected to his community. His efforts extend beyond mere duty; he actively seeks ways to uplift those around him. His native area has benefited significantly from his initiatives. Whether it's establishing medical facilities or aiding flood-affected people, he consistently demonstrates compassion and empathy.

Empathetic Listener:

As a leader, he possesses an open heart and a patient ear. He genuinely listens to people's problems, understanding that solutions often emerge from attentive dialogue. His willingness to engage with individuals at all levels—whether soldiers, civilians, or fellow officers—has earned him respect and admiration.

Conflict Resolution and Compromise:

General Waker-Uz-Zaman's extraordinary judgment shines during moments of conflict. He approaches disputes with a balanced perspective, seeking resolutions that maintain dignity and professionalism. His ability to find common ground and foster compromise positively impacts the entire Army community. Discipline and Communication:

Maintaining a disciplined lifestyle is second nature to him. This discipline extends beyond personal habits; it influences his interactions with family, friends, and colleagues. His effective communication skills bridge gaps and build strong relationships. Whether within his family circle or across military ranks, he ensures clarity and understanding.

Advocate for Peace and Integrity:

General Waker-Uz-Zaman stands unwaveringly for honesty and dignity. He never compromises these values, even in challenging circumstances. His commitment to peace underscores his leadership style, fostering an environment of trust and stability.

In summary, General Waker-Uz-Zaman's legacy is one of compassion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. His popularity within the Army community reflects not only his professional competence but also his genuine care for those he serves. General Waker-Uz-Zaman, OSP, SGP, PSC assumed the duties of Chief of Army Staff of the Bangladesh Army on 23 June 2024.

An alumnus of Bangladesh Military Academy, the General was commissioned in the Corps of Infantry on 20 December 1985. Having an illustrious and colorful career of more than three and half decades, General Waker brings with him an enormous amount of experience in holding key command, staff, and instructional appointments.

Eminent military career.

In his distinguished military career, General Waker Commanded an Infantry Battalion, the only Independent Infantry Brigade of the BD Army, and an Infantry Division. His key staff appointments include staff officer at an Infantry Brigade, School of Infantry and Tactics, and Army Headquarters. He was a distinguished instructor at ‘The School of Infantry and Tactics’, ‘The Non-commissioned Officers’ Academy’, and the Bangladesh Institute of Peace Support Operations Training’. General Waker served as the Military Secretary in Army Headquarters and Principal Staff Officer of the Honourable Prime Minister at the Armed Forces Division under the Prime Minister’s Office. Before joining as the Chief of Army Staff, Bangladesh Army he performed as Chief of General Staff of Bangladesh Army.

Education background:

Waker-uz-Zaman graduated from the Defence Services Command and Staff College. He also studied at the Joint Services Command and Staff College in the United Kingdom. His educational qualifications include a master’s degree in defense studies from Bangladesh National University and a Master of Arts in defense studies from King’s College, University of London.

Resume and Education Summary:

When creating a resume, consider including an “Honors and Awards” section. Provide details such as the date of recognition, the purpose of the award (academic, athletic, or job-related), and a brief description. Additionally, you can list your GPA, relevant coursework, scholarships, and positions of responsibility.

As the head of the Armed Forces Division, he was directly involved with the UN Peacekeeping Affairs of Bangladesh Armed Forces. He was also nominated as a Gender Champion and Gender Advocate of Bangladesh for UN Peacekeeping Affairs. By his appointment as Principal Staff Officer, he also headed the ‘Bangladesh National Authority for Chemical Weapons Convention as Chairman. Under the Blue Helmet, General Waker completed two tours of duty as an observer and staff in UNAVEM (Angola) and UNMIL (Liberia) respectively. As the Chief of General Staff of the BD Army, he was responsible for the military operations, military intelligence, UN peacekeeping affairs, budget, and many other affairs of the BD Army.

General Waker had the rare privilege of commanding the National Victory Day Parade three consecutive times. He was awarded the coveted ‘Extraordinary Service Medal (OSP)’ and ‘Army Medal of Glory (SGP)’ for his remarkable contributions to the modernization of the army.

President’s Education Awards Program (PEAP):

The President’s Education Awards Program was established in 1983 and aims to recognize outstanding students in elementary, middle, and high schools. These students have demonstrated excellence and hard work in their studies.

·Through PEAP, students receive individual recognition from the President of the United States and the U.S. Secretary of Education. It’s a prestigious honor that celebrates educational achievement.

·If you or someone you know received this award, it’s worth highlighting on a General Waker-uz-Zaman, OSP SGP pscresume or CV!

Academic Honors and Awards:

When it comes to academic achievements, colleges, and employers appreciate seeing evidence of excellence. Here are some examples of academic honors and awards:

· Honor Roll: Recognition for maintaining a high GPA consistently.

· Dean’s List: Typically awarded to students with outstanding academic performance each semester.

· Scholarships: Any scholarships received for academic merit, community involvement, or other achievements.

· Subject-Specific Awards: For excelling in specific subjects (e.g., Math, Science, Literature).

· Research Awards: If someone has contributed to research projects or won research-related competitions.

· Thesis/Dissertation Awards: For graduate students who have produced exceptional research work.

· Phi Beta Kappa: An honor society recognizing liberal arts and sciences students.

· National Merit Scholar: Awarded based on PSAT/NMSQT scores.

· Student of the Year: Given by schools or organizations to outstanding students.

· Perfect Attendance: Consistently attending school without missing a day.

· Peer Tutoring Awards: Recognizing contributions to helping fellow students.

· Science Fair Awards: For innovative and well-executed science projects.

· Math Olympiad Awards: For exceptional math skills.

· Language Proficiency Certificates: Such as the DELF/DALF for French or the DELE for Spanish.

· Graduation Honors: Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, or Cum Laude.

· Student Council Leadership Awards: For effective leadership in student government.

· Community Service Awards: Recognizing volunteer efforts.

· Extracurricular Achievements: Sports, arts, music, or other activities.

· National Honor Society Membership: Based on scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

Current Role as Chief of Army Staff

On June 23, 2024, General Waker-Uz-Zaman assumed the prestigious position of Chief of Army Staff (CAS). His leadership during challenging times, including the Non-cooperation movement protests, has been closely watched. Notably, just over a month into his tenure, he announced the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, demonstrating his influence and authority.

General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s commitment to national security, professionalism, and strategic vision continues to shape the Bangladesh Army. As CAS, he shoulders the responsibility of safeguarding the nation and ensuring its defense preparedness. His legacy is already etched in the annals of Bangladesh’s military history.

In summary, General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s journey—from a young cadet to the highest echelons of military leadership—exemplifies dedication, integrity, and service to the nation. His story inspires generations of aspiring officers and underscores the importance of strong leadership in safeguarding our sovereignty.

I’ve crafted this biography with care, highlighting General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s achievements and emphasizing his impact on the Bangladesh Army. If you’d like additional details or have any other requests, feel free to share them with me.

General Waker-uz-Zaman, the current Chief of Army Staff (CAS) of the Bangladesh Army, has an interesting family background. Let’s dive into it:

Father and Paternal Grandfather:

Waker-uz-Zaman was born on September 16, 1966, in Dhaka when it was part of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

His father was Asad-uz-Zaman, a well-known district judge.

Waker-uz-Zaman’s paternal grandfather was Fazlur Rahman, originally from Sherpur in the Mymensingh Division. Fazlur Rahman was honored with the prestigious title of Khan Bahadur by the British for his services to the nation.

Maternal Grandfather:

·Waker-uz-Zaman’s maternal grandfather was Sadiq Khan, who was also honored with the title of Khan Bahadur.

Marriage and Family Ties:

Waker-uz-Zaman is married to Begum Sarahnaz Kamalika Rahman.

His wife, Sarahnaz Kamalika Zaman, is the daughter of General Muhammad Mustafizur Rahman, who served as the army chief of Bangladesh from 1997 to 2000 during Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s first term in office.

He frequents as a keynote speaker in different seminars and symposiums both at home and abroad. He enjoys games and sports. He is happily married to Sarahnaz Kamalika Zaman and blessed with two daughters: Samiha Raisa Zaman and Shayeera Ibnat Zaman.

Recent Appointments:

Before becoming the Chief of Army Staff, he served as the Chief of General Staff (CGS) of the Bangladesh Army.

Additionally, he held the position of the 15th Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division.

Notably, just over a month after assuming the role of Bangladesh Army chief, during the Non-cooperation movement protests, he announced the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024.

Conclusion

General Waker-uz-Zaman’s journey is indeed impressive, and it’s clear that his family’s legacy has played a significant role in shaping his path. It’s fascinating to see how his family’s legacy and educational background have influenced his journey in the military.

General Waker-uz-Zaman’s family and relatives have a rich history of involvement in a symphony orchestra, and many of them hold significant positions and responsibilities. Due to this prominent family background, General Waker-uz-Zaman maintains a high level of respect for local leaders and circles of friends.”

Source: Information provided by the user. : Information about General Waker-Uz-Zaman’s career and achievements is based on publicly available knowledge up to October 2023. For any updates beyond this date, I recommend checking official military or government sources.


SK Mahbubul Alam
   Managing Director & CEO at SILICON SOLUTIONS LTD