A Finance and Investment MSc student is hoping to represent De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) on the world stage and scoop a prestigious industry body award.
Md Maksudul Karim Nur Shawon, 24, who came from Bangladesh to DMU to study for his Master’s, is hoping to qualify for the finals of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) Educational Trust Global Awards, where he can win up to £4,000 and a work experience opportunity in London.
DMU is one of more than 40 universities across Europe, Africa and Asia to partner with CISI and each year is invited to nominate its top-performing undergraduate or post-graduate finance student to compete for a place in the Global Awards.
Students are tasked with researching a topic before presenting their findings at a regional final before the winners advance to the final of the Global Awards.
To reach the final, Md Maksudul Karim Nur must deliver a presentation on the three factors driving the cost-of-living crisis in the UK and how it is affecting individuals – the topic he has been assigned by CISI.
He said: “I didn’t expect to be nominated for this prestigious competition but I am really honoured, especially having only been in Leicester for four months. I have worked very hard in my exams and coursework because the top students can receive sponsorship for a CISI exam.
“Receiving accreditation from CISI is very prestigious and will no doubt benefit my career. Nowadays many banks and financial institutions are choosing to use CISI qualifications to benchmark their employees’ knowledge, so this will help me fulfil my career goals.
“The cost-of-living crisis is something we cannot ignore and needs to be addressed. I have spoken to residents in Leicester and Birmingham about their experiences and what they want the government to do about this problem.
“Inflation is of course one of the main factors driving the crisis and the money they spent on bills last year no longer covers the cost. Utility bills are particularly concerning and not using their heating system, so their home is no longer comfortable.
“I’m not focused on the result because I don’t want to put extra pressure on myself. I just want to do the process right, and yes I am confident I can deliver what I need to deliver.”
The CISI is a leading global professional body for workers in the financial and investment sector and offers five levels of membership, including Chartered Member (MCSI) and Chartered Fellow (FCSI).
On top of his nomination, Md Maksudul Karim Nur was also named among 10 DMU students to secure sponsorship from the CISI to take its Level 3 Introduction to Securities and Investment professional qualification.
Dr Gregory James, Programme Leader of MSc Finance and Investment and MSc Finance and Banking, nominated Md Maksudual Karim Nur for his award on the strength of his Block One assignment Finance, Investment, and Financial Management.
He said: "I am proud to nominate Mr Shawon, one of our top-performing students for the CISI Educational Trust Global Awards. His dedication to academic excellence and ability to excel in the face of challenging topics showcase the calibre of students that our MSc Finance and Investment programme produces.
"Winning or even being nominated for these awards has a profound impact on our students' confidence and career prospects. It provides them with a unique platform to connect with industry experts, gain insights, and set them on a trajectory for success in the competitive field of finance.
"Being accredited Education Partner by the CISI is an honour for both our university and our outstanding students. It underscores DMU's commitment to fostering excellence in finance education and preparing our students for success in the global financial landscape."
The Global Awards final takes place on Friday 8 March.
Posted on Friday 1 March 2024