Major General Dr. Md. Shahedul Islam (Retd.), ndc, hdmc, psc, PhD, MPhil, has officially assumed office as the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on 26 July 2026.

With more than 35 years of distinguished experience in military leadership, international diplomacy, and academia, Major General Dr. Md. Shahedul Islam (Retd.) brings a wealth of expertise to the organization. During his tenure as Defense Attaché at the Embassy of Bangladesh in Washington, D.C., he was awarded the prestigious Legion of Merit by the Government of the United States in recognition of his outstanding service.

He earned a PhD from the University of Dhaka with research focusing on "Skill Gap Analysis of the Migrant Workers of Bangladesh." He also holds MPhil and MBA degrees from the University of Dhaka, Master's in Management Studies from Osmania University, India, and Master of Defense Studies from National University, Bangladesh.

He served as Dean at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) and as Treasurer and Professor at Central University of Science and Technology. In addition, he made significant contributions through his service in the United Nations peacekeeping missions.

BGMEA leaders expressed their confidence that, through his expertise, international diplomatic experience, and visionary leadership, the new Secretary General will play a pivotal role in sustaining the growth of Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) industry, developing a skilled workforce, and addressing emerging global challenges.

Expressing his enthusiasm on assuming the role, Major General Dr. Md. Shahedul Islam (Retd.) said that he is honored to join BGMEA, the apex trade body representing Bangladesh's readymade garment industry, which serves as a key driving force of the country's economy. He reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the BGMEA Board and all industry entrepreneurs to address challenges facing by the RMG industry and further enhance Bangladesh's position in the international apparel market.