1 . Britannia University Journal (BUJ)
About the Journal The Britannia University Journal (BUJ) is a multidisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open-access academic journal published by Britannia University, Cumilla, Bangladesh. The journal provides an intellectual platform for researchers, academicians, and professionals to disseminate innovative ideas and empirical findings that advance knowledge across diverse disciplines. BUJ publishes original research articles, review papers, case studies, and conceptual analyses that contribute to both theoretical development and practical applications. The journal upholds high ethical standards and rigorous double-blind peer review to ensure academic integrity, originality, and quality of scholarship. With an inclusive and international outlook, BUJ encourages submissions from both emerging and established scholars. Its editorial policy promotes cross-disciplinary dialogue connecting Business, Social Sciences, Humanities, Science, Technology, and Language Studies. Frequency: Biannual (June & December) Publication Type: Open Access | Online & Print Publisher: Research and Publication Cell, Britannia University ISSN: [To be assigned] Aims and Scope The Britannia University Journal (BUJ) aims to foster interdisciplinary research that addresses contemporary global, regional, and local challenges. The journal aspires to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice through research that informs policy, innovation, and education. Scope Includes (but not limited to): 1. Business and Management Studies - Banking, Finance, and FinTech innovations - Entrepreneurship, Strategy, and Organizational Behavior - Human Resource and Sustainable Management - Green Supply Chain and Digital Economy 2. Computer Science and Engineering - Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science - Robotics, Automation, and Internet of Things (IoT) - Software Engineering and Cybersecurity - Computational Intelligence and Smart Systems 3. English Language and Literature - Literary Criticism, Comparative and Postcolonial Studies - Linguistics, Discourse Analysis, and Cognitive Linguistics - Translation, Language Teaching, and Cultural Studies - Intersections of Language, Identity, and Technology 4. Emerging Interdisciplinary Themes - Climate Change and Sustainability - Educational Innovation and Pedagogy - Digital Transformation and Social Media - Ethics, Governance, and Human Development BUJ welcomes both empirical and theoretical works employing qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. The journal values originality, methodological rigor, and social relevance.
2 . Call for Papers
The Britannia University Journal (BUJ) invites submissions for its upcoming issue. Academics, researchers, and professionals from universities, research institutes, and industries are welcome to contribute original and unpublished manuscripts. We particularly encourage submissions that: - Present cutting-edge research and innovative methodologies. - Offer interdisciplinary perspectives bridging theory and practice. - Contribute to emerging debates in business, technology, humanities, and social sciences. - Demonstrate societal, technological, or educational impact. Submission Guidelines: - Manuscripts must be written in clear English and formatted according to the BUJ author guidelines (APA 7th edition). - All submissions undergo double-blind peer review by at least two experts in the relevant field. - Accepted papers will be published online and in print, free of charge, under open-access licensing. - Authors retain copyright but grant BUJ the right of first publication. Important Dates: - Submission Deadline: 15 December 2025 - Notification of Acceptance: Within 6–8 weeks of submission - Publication Date: June 2026 Issue How to Submit: Manuscripts should be submitted electronically via email: editorbuj@britannia.edu.bd (Subject line: “Submission – BU Journal 2025 December Issue”) For Reviewers and Critics: BUJ also invites experienced scholars to join its Review Board. Reviewers play a crucial role in maintaining the journal’s academic excellence through constructive evaluation and feedback. Expressions of interest can be sent to the Editor-in-Chief at editorbuj@britannia.edu.bd with a brief academic profile and area of expertise.
3 . Structure of a Research Paper
Structure of a Research Paper Britannia University (BU) Journal expects most high-quality research papers to follow a logical, rigorous format. The typical structure is often IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion), possibly with modifications depending on discipline. Here are the common sections and what content the authors should include: Section Purpose / Content Key Features / What Evaluators Look For Title Page Contains the title, author names, affiliations, contact information, sometimes acknowledgments or running head. Title should be concise, informative, reflecting central idea; no abbreviations unless standard; affiliation clear; corresponding author indicated. Abstract A summary of the paper—background, aim, methods, key results, implications. Usually structured or unstructured; word-limit (often 150-250 words); no references (or minimal); self-contained (terms defined, no figures/tables referenced). Keywords /JEL/ Classification Codes (optional depending field) For indexing and discoverability. 3-7 keywords (or more if required); subject classification (e.g. JEL codes for economics) might be needed. Introduction Sets context, states the problem, research question(s), contribution, and roadmap. Should show why the problem matters; gaps in literature; what this paper offers; objectives/hypotheses clearly stated; preview of the rest of the paper. Literature Review / Theoretical Background Show what has been done in the field; theories; previous findings; identify gap(s). Critical and up-to-date; not just descriptive but analytic; show where your work fits; clear linkage to research questions or hypotheses. Conceptual / Theoretical Framework (if applicable) Particularly for disciplines like Management, Social Sciences, Law, Literature, Linguistics, etc.; shows theoretical model or propositions. Clear, logical framework; hypotheses/propositions if empirical; definitions of constructs. Methods / Methodology How data were collected and analyzed; design; sample; instruments; procedures; empirical or qualitative/quantitative or mixed methods. Sufficient detail for reproducibility; justification of methods; data sources; variables; measures; ethical considerations. Results / Findings Presentation of the data outcomes; objective reporting of what was found. Tables, figures, charts as needed; statistical tests; qualitative findings with quotes or themes; clarity; no interpretation here (reserved for Discussion) except minimal. Discussion Interpret the results; compare with literature; theoretical and practical implications; limitations; suggestions for future research. Link back to research questions/hypotheses; significance; unexpected findings explained; make clear what your contribution is; be honest about limitations. Conclusion Summarize key findings & contributions; policy / managerial / theoretical implications; possible future avenues. Should not simply restate; should give value; implications; final remarks. Acknowledgements (if any) Recognize contributions, funding, institutional support. Ensure disclosures, conflicts of interest, funding agencies noted. References / Bibliography List all works cited. Use a consistent, appropriate citation style; recent sources; quality peer‐reviewed sources; avoid over-reliance on very old or obscure works. Appendices / Supplementary Material (if needed) Extra data, proofs, questionnaires, etc. Referenced in the text; numbered; supplementary but not essential to understanding the core arguments. Discipline‐Specific Variations/Emphases While the general structure holds, different fields have specialties. Some examples: • Business/Finance/Accounting/Banking/Management: Empirical orientation; statistical analysis; tables/figures; hypotheses; robustness checks; implications for practice and policy. • English Literature & Linguistics: Often more qualitative, theoretical; textual analysis; critical interpretation; theoretical framing; less emphasis on hypotheses but more on argument structures; possibly close reading, discourse analysis. • Law: More doctrinal, case law analysis; legal argument; interpretation; sometimes comparative but less on quantitative methods. • Computer Science/Engineering/ICT: Could include design/architecture; algorithm or system description; experiments or simulations; performance evaluation; sometimes pseudocode or formal proofs. • Economics: Quantitative modelling; econometrics; theoretical vs empirical balance; modeling; data sources; robustness; classification codes (e.g. JEL). • Sociology, etc.: Mixed methods; qualitative interviews; coding; thematic analysis; social theory; ethical concerns.
4 . Authors Guidelines for BU Journal
Authors Guidelines for BU Journal 1. Aims & Scope • BU Journal welcomes high-quality original research papers in the fields of Business Studies (Marketing, Finance, Accounting, Banking, Management), English Literature & Linguistics, Law, Computer Science & Engineering, ICT, Economics, Sociology, and related social sciences and humanities. • Both empirical (quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods) and theoretical/conceptual papers are considered, provided they make a contribution to the literature and practice in their field. 2. Manuscript Types • Full Research Articles: Detailed empirical or theoretical works. • Conceptual/Theoretical Papers: Frameworks, models, propositions. • Review Articles: Systematic or critical reviews of extant literature. • Case Studies: Where applicable, especially in business, law, or ICT. 3. Manuscript Structure Authors should organize their manuscript as follows: 1. Title Page o Title (concise, informative, no unnecessary jargon or abbreviations). o Author(s) full name(s), institutional affiliation(s), email address(es), corresponding author marked. o A brief footnote if any funding source, acknowledgements, or conflict of interest. 2. Abstract o Maximum: 200-250 words. o Summarize: background/motivation, aim/research question(s), methodology, key results/findings, and conclusion/implications. o Should be self-contained: define any technical terms; no citations if possible. 3. Keywords o 3-7 keywords relevant to your topic, discipline, and useful for indexing. 4. Introduction o Context and background. o Statement of the problem or research gap. o Objectives or research questions/hypotheses. o Significance/contributions. o Roadmap: brief outline of the rest of the paper. 5. Literature Review/Theoretical Background o Review of prior literature, highlighting strengths and gaps. o Theoretical foundations or relevant frameworks. o Where applicable, propositions or hypotheses drawing from the literature. 6. Methodology o Research design (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, experimental etc.). o Data sources/sample/setting. o Measurement/instrumentation; variables/constructs. o Data collection procedure. o Data analysis methods (statistical tests, software, qualitative coding, etc.). o Ethical considerations (consent, anonymity, etc., where applicable). 7. Results/Findings o Presentation of empirical or analytical results. o Use of tables, figures, charts as needed. o Statistical results, significant or non-significant, robustness checks. o For qualitative work: themes, quotes, coding. 8. Discussion o Interpretation of the results; comparison to hypotheses, theory, previous studies. o Implications: theoretical, practical, policy, managerial etc. o Limitations of your study. o Suggestions for future research. 9. Conclusion o Recapitulation of main findings and contributions. o Final remarks on implications and potential impact. 10. Acknowledgments o Funding sources, institutional support, persons who contributed but are not co-authors. 11. References o Use American Psychological Association (APA) 7th Edition citation style. o Ensure all cited works are listed; recent and relevant sources. 12. Appendices/Supplementary Materials (optional) o For additional tables, proofs, questionnaires etc. o Clearly numbered and referred in the manuscript. 4. Formatting • Manuscript length: Full articles typically between 6,000-8,000 words. • Font: Times New Roman, 12-pt, double-spaced; margins: e.g. 1 inch (2.54 cm) all sides. • Line numbering. • All pages numbered. • Figures and tables: Embedded in manuscript near first citation; high resolution; captioned. • Headings: Consistent style (e.g. Level 1 headings bold, Level 2 italics, etc.). 5. Style and Language • Manuscript should be in good academic English; authors for whom English is not a first language should ensure proper proofreading. • Avoid colloquial language, slang, gender‐biased expressions, etc. • Define abbreviations at first use. • Use past tense (or appropriate tense) when describing what you did; present tense for conclusions, etc. 6. Ethical & Integrity Considerations • Original work: No plagiarism, duplicate publication. • Disclosure of conflict of interest. • If involving human subjects (surveys, interviews), mention ethical approvals, informed consent. • Data transparency: Indicate whether data/materials/code are available (or reasons if not). 7. Submission Process • Manuscripts should be submitted in Microsoft Word (or compatible) format. PDF may be requested for review but final submission in editable format. • Include a cover letter stating the contribution of the paper, why it fits BU Journal, and confirmation that it has not been submitted elsewhere. • Suggest reviewers (optional) with affiliation and contact details. 8. Review Process • All manuscripts will go through double blind peer review. • Revision may be requested; authors to respond point by point to reviewers’ comments. 9. Citation & Reference Style • American Psychological Association (APA) 7th Edition Style • In-text citations: consistent formatting. • Bibliography: Author names, year, title, journal/publisher, volume/issue/pages as per style. 10. Publication Fees/Copyright • Free of charge • Ownership of Copyright/Licensing (open access). • Permissions required for reproduced figures, etc.
5 . Sample Research Paper on Business/Finance/Accounting/Banking/Management, etc.
📄 Sample Research Paper on Business/Finance/Accounting/Banking/Management, etc. Title: The Impact of FinTech Adoption on Financial Inclusion: Evidence from Commercial Banks in Bangladesh Author: Ms. Farzana Tabassum Rimu Senior Lecturer Department of Business Administration, Britannia University, Comilla, Bangladesh Email: ftrimu@britannia.edu.bd Corresponding Author Abstract Financial technology (FinTech) is transforming banking services worldwide. This study examines the impact of FinTech adoption on financial inclusion in Bangladesh’s commercial banking sector. Using survey data from 350 customers and interviews with 20 bank officials, the study analyzes how mobile banking, digital wallets, and online credit services enhance access to finance for previously unbanked populations. The results show that FinTech adoption positively influences customer convenience, transaction transparency, and financial access. However, barriers such as digital illiteracy and cyber security risks persist. The paper contributes to the growing literature on digital banking by highlighting the role of FinTech in accelerating financial inclusion in emerging economies. Keywords: FinTech, financial inclusion, digital banking, commercial banks, Bangladesh 1. Introduction Financial inclusion is a priority for sustainable economic development, particularly in emerging economies where large segments of the population remain unbanked. The growth of FinTech has provided new tools for extending banking services to underserved communities. In Bangladesh, mobile banking platforms such as bKash, Rocket, and Nagad have transformed financial service delivery. Yet, questions remain about their effectiveness in fostering long-term financial inclusion. Research Question (RQ): To what extent does FinTech adoption in commercial banks enhance financial inclusion in Bangladesh? 2. Literature Review / Theoretical Background 2.1 Financial Inclusion and Economic Development Financial inclusion expands access to credit, savings, and payments, promoting poverty reduction and growth (Demirgüç-Kunt & Klapper, 2012). 2.2 Role of FinTech in Banking Studies suggest FinTech reduces transaction costs, increases accessibility, and provides real-time financial services (Arner et al., 2017). 2.3 Bangladesh Context Despite rapid adoption of mobile money, digital illiteracy and weak regulatory oversight hinder effectiveness (Rahman, 2020). 2.4 Research Gap Most existing studies focus on FinTech’s operational aspects. Few empirical studies examine its broader impact on financial inclusion in Bangladesh. 3. Conceptual Framework The study adopts the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as the theoretical lens, focusing on: • Perceived Usefulness (customer convenience, efficiency). • Perceived Ease of Use (simplicity, accessibility). • Trust and Security (confidence in digital platforms). Hypothesis: Higher levels of FinTech adoption will positively influence financial inclusion outcomes. 4. Methodology • Research Design: Mixed-method (survey + interviews). • Population: Customers of five leading commercial banks in Dhaka and Chattogram. • Sample: 350 customers (random sampling) + 20 bank officials (purposive sampling). • Data Collection: Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. • Analysis Tools: SPSS for quantitative analysis (regression, correlation), NVivo for qualitative coding. 5. Results / Findings 5.1 Quantitative Results Regression analysis shows: • Mobile banking adoption has a significant positive effect on financial access (β = 0.47, p < 0.01). • Digital wallets improve transaction convenience (β = 0.32, p < 0.05). • Cybersecurity concerns negatively influence adoption (β = -0.21, p < 0.05). 5.2 Qualitative Results Interviews revealed: • Bank officials see FinTech as a “strategic necessity” for reaching rural markets. • Customers emphasize time-saving but worry about fraud and data misuse. 6. Discussion The findings confirm that FinTech adoption significantly enhances financial inclusion, aligning with global evidence (Arner et al., 2017). Mobile platforms provide access to unbanked rural populations, supporting government goals of “Digital Bangladesh.” Implications: • For Banks: Need to invest in cybersecurity and customer education. • For Policy Makers: Strengthen digital literacy programs and regulatory frameworks. • For Researchers: Opens avenues for comparative studies with other South Asian economies. Limitations: • Sample restricted to urban areas; rural populations underrepresented. • Self-reported data may be subject to bias. 7. Conclusion FinTech adoption is a game-changer in advancing financial inclusion in Bangladesh. While mobile banking and digital wallets significantly enhance accessibility, sustained progress requires addressing cybersecurity risks and digital illiteracy. Future research should focus on rural areas and the long-term impact of FinTech on poverty alleviation. Acknowledgements The author acknowledges the support of Britannia University Business Administration Department and thanks the participating banks for facilitating data collection. References Arner, D. W., Barberis, J., & Buckley, R. P. (2017). FinTech and regtech: Impact on regulators and banks. Journal of Banking Regulation, 19(4), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41261-017-0037-3 Demirgüç-Kunt, A., & Klapper, L. (2012). Measuring financial inclusion: The Global Findex database (Policy Research Working Paper No. 6025). World Bank. https://doi.org/10.1596/1813-9450-6025 Rahman, S. (2020). Digital finance and financial inclusion in Bangladesh: Opportunities and challenges. Bangladesh Journal of Finance, 42(2), 55–70.
Title: Enhancing Autonomous Navigation in Mobile Robots Using a Hybrid Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach Author: Mohammad Mozammel Hoque Assistant Professor Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Britannia University, Comilla, Bangladesh Email: mdmhoque@britannia.edu.bd Corresponding Author Abstract Autonomous navigation remains a key challenge in mobile robotics due to dynamic environments, uncertainty, and real-time decision-making demands. This study proposes a hybrid Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) model combining Deep Q-Network (DQN) with Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) to improve path planning and obstacle avoidance. A simulation environment was developed using ROS and Gazebo, and the model was tested against benchmark algorithms in maze and cluttered environments. Results show a 17% improvement in success rate and a 12% reduction in collision rate compared to baseline models. The study demonstrates that hybrid DRL approaches offer scalable and robust solutions for autonomous robotic navigation. Keywords: autonomous navigation, reinforcement learning, robotics, machine learning, artificial intelligence 1. Introduction Autonomous navigation is central to the development of intelligent robots for applications in logistics, healthcare, and defense. Traditional rule-based navigation methods often fail in uncertain and dynamic environments. Reinforcement Learning (RL) has emerged as a promising approach (Sutton & Barto, 2018), enabling agents to learn from interaction with environments. However, standalone algorithms like Deep Q-Network (DQN) often face issues of convergence and stability in continuous state-action spaces (Mnih et al., 2015). This paper addresses this limitation by proposing a hybrid DRL approach that integrates the strengths of DQN and PPO. The research seeks to answer: RQ: Can hybrid DRL improve success rate and stability in mobile robot navigation compared to traditional single RL models? 2. Literature Review / Theoretical Background 2.1 Autonomous Navigation Navigation algorithms can be categorized as classical (A*, Dijkstra), sampling-based (RRT, PRM), and learning-based. While classical algorithms ensure efficiency in static environments, they lack adaptability. 2.2 Reinforcement Learning in Robotics RL methods allow robots to adapt through trial and error. DQN performs well in discrete environments but struggles in continuous domains, while PPO provides stable training for policy-based approaches. 2.3 Gap in Research Few studies explore hybridizing RL algorithms to combine the discrete exploration strength of DQN with the stable policy gradient updates of PPO for real-time robotic navigation. 3. Conceptual Framework The framework integrates: • DQN Module: Handles exploration and Q-value estimation. • PPO Module: Optimizes policy updates for stable convergence. • Fusion Layer: Dynamically weights outputs of both models to select optimal actions. This hybrid design ensures adaptability and stability in dynamic navigation tasks. 4. Methodology • Environment: ROS (Robot Operating System) with Gazebo simulator. • Robot Model: TurtleBot3 mobile robot. • Training Episodes: 10,000 episodes with dynamic obstacles. • Reward Function: +1 for reaching goal, -1 for collision, step penalty -0.01. • Algorithms Compared: DQN, PPO, Hybrid DQN-PPO. • Evaluation Metrics: success rate, collision rate, average reward, convergence speed. 5. Results / Findings Algorithm Success Rate Collision Rate Avg. Reward Convergence Episodes DQN 73% 18% 0.52 5,400 PPO 81% 15% 0.61 4,700 Hybrid DQN-PPO 90% 6% 0.74 3,800 Key findings: • Hybrid DQN-PPO outperformed both baselines in all metrics. • The model showed smoother convergence and reduced training variance. • Hybrid approach generalized better to unseen obstacle configurations. 6. Discussion The results confirm that combining value-based (DQN) and policy-based (PPO) learning improves robustness in dynamic environments. The hybrid model balances exploration and stability, a crucial aspect for real-world deployment. Implications: • For Robotics: Provides an adaptable navigation system suitable for service robots in dynamic indoor settings. • For AI Research: Demonstrates that hybrid RL strategies can overcome the limitations of single algorithms. • For Industry: Enhances safety and efficiency in robotics applications such as warehouse automation. Limitations: • Training remains computationally expensive. • Simulation-to-reality transfer still poses challenges. 7. Conclusion This study introduced a Hybrid DQN-PPO framework for autonomous navigation in mobile robots. Experimental results validated the approach, showing superior performance over baseline models. Future research should extend to real-world robotic platforms and investigate hybridization with other deep learning models such as Graph Neural Networks. Acknowledgements The author thanks Britannia University Robotics Lab for providing computational resources and acknowledges support from the University Research Grant (URG-2025/ICT/BU). References Mnih, V., Kavukcuoglu, K., Silver, D., Rusu, A. A., Veness, J., Bellemare, M. G., … Hassabis, D. (2015). Human-level control through deep reinforcement learning. Nature, 518(7540), 529–533. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature14236 Schulman, J., Wolski, F., Dhariwal, P., Radford, A., & Klimov, O. (2017). Proximal policy optimization algorithms. arXiv preprint arXiv:1707.06347. https://arxiv.org/abs/1707.06347 Sutton, R. S., & Barto, A. G. (2018). Reinforcement learning: An introduction (2nd ed.). MIT Press. https://doi.org/10.5555/3312046
7 . Sample Research Paper on English Literature & Language
Title: Metaphor and Identity in Contemporary Postcolonial Poetry: A Cognitive Linguistic Approach Author: Ms. Kiswar Zerin Senior Lecturer Department of English, Britannia University, Comilla, Bangladesh Email: kzerin@britannia.edu.bd Corresponding Author Abstract This paper investigates the role of metaphor in shaping postcolonial identity construction in selected contemporary poems from South Asian writers. Using a cognitive linguistic framework, the study explores how metaphors such as journey, roots, and home articulate experiences of displacement and belonging. A close textual analysis was conducted on ten poems published between 2000–2020. Findings reveal that metaphors not only encode individual emotions but also function as collective narratives of cultural memory. The paper argues that metaphorical language provides a cognitive and emotional space through which postcolonial identities are negotiated. These insights contribute to both cognitive linguistics and postcolonial literary studies. Keywords: metaphor, postcolonial identity, cognitive linguistics, contemporary poetry, South Asian literature 1. Introduction The intersection of literature and linguistics offers rich ground for exploring how language shapes cultural identities. Postcolonial poetry, in particular, provides a lens through which writers articulate displacement, hybridity, and cultural negotiation. Scholars such as Bhabha (1994) and Ashcroft (2001) have emphasized the politics of language in postcolonial discourse. However, less attention has been given to metaphor as a cognitive and linguistic tool for identity construction. This paper addresses this gap by asking: How do contemporary South Asian poets use metaphor to construct postcolonial identity? 2. Literature Review / Theoretical Background 2.1 Postcolonial Identity and Literature Postcolonial identity often emerges through tensions of cultural memory, hybridity, and resistance. Previous studies (Spivak, 1993; Said, 1978) highlight how literature reflects socio-political struggles. Poetry becomes a medium of both resistance and self-definition. 2.2 Metaphor in Cognitive Linguistics Lakoff and Johnson’s (1980) theory of conceptual metaphor suggests that metaphors structure human thought, not just language. For example, the metaphor life is a journey shapes how individuals understand progress and experience. 2.3 Gap in Research While studies have examined narrative and imagery in postcolonial poetry, few have systematically applied cognitive metaphor theory to investigate identity construction. 3. Conceptual Framework The study applies Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) as the analytical lens. Metaphors are categorized according to domains (e.g., journey, home, root, exile) and interpreted within the postcolonial socio-cultural context. 4. Methodology • Research Design: Qualitative textual analysis. • Corpus: Ten poems from three South Asian poets (2000–2020). • Selection Criteria: Poems explicitly engaging with migration, cultural memory, or belonging. • Procedure: Poems were coded for metaphorical expressions, then categorized according to conceptual domains. • Analysis Tool: Manual coding supplemented by NVivo software for thematic clustering. 5. Results / Findings Analysis identified three dominant metaphorical domains: 1. Journey Metaphors (the road ahead, maps of memory): Construct identity as continuous negotiation. 2. Root and Plant Metaphors (uprooted, transplanted, deep soil): Reflect dislocation yet resilience. 3. Home and Shelter Metaphors (broken house, open doors, thresholds): Symbolize cultural hybridity and belonging. Example: In Poet X’s line “I carry the soil of my ancestors in the soles of my feet,” the metaphor of soil links memory with embodied identity. 6. Discussion The findings affirm that metaphor functions beyond stylistics—it shapes cognition and cultural identity. Journey metaphors suggest that postcolonial identity is not static but processual. Root metaphors indicate a tension between dislocation and survival. Home metaphors negotiate belonging across spaces. These results extend Lakoff & Johnson’s theory by showing that metaphor in postcolonial contexts has a collective socio-cultural dimension. Implications include: • For Literary Studies: Provides new insights into postcolonial poetics. • For Linguistics: Demonstrates application of CMT beyond Western texts. • For Cultural Studies: Suggests that metaphors can function as tools of memory and resistance. 7. Conclusion This study demonstrated how metaphor is central to postcolonial identity construction in South Asian poetry. By applying cognitive linguistics, the research highlighted metaphors as both cognitive structures and cultural narratives. Future research could expand the corpus across more regions and include comparative analysis with diasporic literature. Acknowledgements The author thanks Britannia University for institutional support and the anonymous reviewers for their insightful comments. References Ashcroft, B. (2001). Post-colonial transformation. Routledge. Bhabha, H. K. (1994). The location of culture. Routledge. Lakoff, G., & Johnson, M. (1980). Metaphors we live by. University of Chicago Press. Said, E. W. (1978). Orientalism. Pantheon Books. Spivak, G. C. (1993). Outside in the teaching machine. Routledge.
Title: The Doctrine of Sustainable Development and Judicial Enforcement of Environmental Law in Bangladesh: A Critical Analysis Author: Ms. Asma Akter Senior Lecturer Department of Law, Britannia University, Comilla, Bangladesh Email: asmaakter@britannia.edu.bd Corresponding Author Abstract Sustainable development has emerged as a central principle of international and domestic environmental law. This paper critically examines how the judiciary in Bangladesh has interpreted and enforced the doctrine of sustainable development in landmark environmental cases. Using doctrinal legal research and case analysis, the study highlights the judiciary’s role in balancing economic growth with environmental protection. Findings reveal that while the courts have advanced environmental jurisprudence by invoking sustainable development, challenges remain in enforcement and institutional coordination. The paper concludes by suggesting reforms to strengthen environmental adjudication and policy coherence in Bangladesh. Keywords: sustainable development, environmental law, judicial review, Bangladesh, environmental justice 1. Introduction Environmental degradation is one of the most pressing challenges in developing countries, where industrialization often conflicts with ecological protection. In Bangladesh, the judiciary has increasingly invoked the principle of sustainable development to ensure environmental justice. This paper addresses the research question: RQ: How has the judiciary in Bangladesh applied the doctrine of sustainable development in environmental law cases, and what are the implications for future legal reforms? The study is significant as it situates Bangladesh’s judicial role within global environmental jurisprudence while identifying gaps in enforcement mechanisms. 2. Literature Review/Theoretical Background 2.1 Sustainable Development in International Law The concept gained prominence in the Brundtland Report (1987) and was reaffirmed in the Rio Declaration (1992). Principle 4 of the Rio Declaration emphasizes integrating environmental protection into development processes. 2.2 Judicial Approaches in South Asia India’s Supreme Court has pioneered environmental jurisprudence by applying sustainable development in cases such as Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996). Pakistan’s judiciary has similarly recognized environmental rights as fundamental. 2.3 Gap in Research While there is growing literature on environmental law in Bangladesh, few studies critically analyze how sustainable development has shaped judicial reasoning in landmark cases. 3. Conceptual / Theoretical Framework The paper uses doctrinal legal research methodology, focusing on: • Case Law Analysis – Judicial interpretations of sustainable development. • Doctrinal Framework – Application of constitutional principles (e.g., Article 32: right to life). • Comparative Perspective – How Bangladesh’s judiciary aligns with or diverges from other South Asian jurisdictions. 4. Methodology • Type: Doctrinal research. • Sources: Statutes, judicial decisions of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, international conventions, secondary sources (articles, books). • Case Selection: Landmark cases where the doctrine of sustainable development was explicitly referenced. • Analytical Approach: Critical analysis of judicial reasoning, consistency, and implications. 5. Results / Findings 5.1 Landmark Cases in Bangladesh 1. Dr. Mohiuddin Farooque v. Bangladesh (1997) – The Supreme Court recognized public interest litigation in environmental matters and emphasized balancing development with environmental protection. 2. Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) cases – Courts have invoked sustainable development to prevent unregulated industrial activities in ecologically sensitive zones. 3. River Pollution Cases – Judicial directives issued to protect rivers from encroachment and industrial waste. 5.2 Observed Trends • Sustainable development often invoked through right to life (Article 32) and right to environment. • Courts prefer injunctive relief to stop ongoing environmental harm. • Weak enforcement remains a barrier despite progressive judgments. 6. Discussion The analysis shows that Bangladesh’s judiciary has gradually aligned itself with global trends in environmental jurisprudence. By invoking sustainable development, courts provide a constitutional basis for environmental protection. Implications: • For Legal Practice: Strengthens use of constitutional remedies for environmental litigation. • For Policy: Encourages integration of environmental considerations in development planning. • For Comparative Law: Bangladesh follows Indian jurisprudence but has been slower in establishing binding precedents. Limitations: • Judicial activism not always matched by executive compliance. • Lack of specialized environmental courts hinders effective enforcement. 7. Conclusion The judiciary in Bangladesh has played a pivotal role in embedding sustainable development into environmental law. However, enforcement gaps persist due to weak institutional capacity. Reforms such as establishing specialized environmental courts and stronger monitoring mechanisms are necessary to give full effect to judicial pronouncements. Acknowledgements The author thanks Britannia University Law Faculty for research support and the BELA archives for access to environmental litigation records. References Alam, S. (2010). Principles of environmental law in Bangladesh. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. Brundtland Commission. (1987). Our common future. Oxford University Press. Dr. Mohiuddin Farooque v. Bangladesh, 49 DLR (AD) 1 (Supreme Court of Bangladesh 1997). United Nations. (1992). Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, UN Doc. A/CONF.151/26 (Vol. I). https://www.un.org/en/development/desa/population/migration/generalassembly/docs/globalcompact/A_CONF.151_26_Vol.I_Declaration.pdf Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India, (1996) 5 SCC 647 (Supreme Court of India).