“Those who work for passion are always richer than those who work only for money.”
This one sentence seems to encapsulate the guiding philosophy behind Dr. Jubayer Shamim’s long journey as a researcher at the University of Tokyo. Here, wealth is not just a symbol of financial prosperity; rather, he wants to emphasize the profound sense of fulfillment, joy in work, and the experience of utilizing one’s abilities to their fullest. For those who wish to pursue the challenging, long road of science and research, this perspective serves as a source of mental strength.
For many students in Bangladesh, dreams of higher education or research often fade under the pressures of reality. Family and societal expectations, the need for a quick job, worries about financial security—all these factors often make it seem easier to choose a “safe” path instead of following one’s interests. But Dr. Jubayer Shamim’s life shows that security and fulfillment do not always go hand in hand. Sometimes walking the path of passion enriches a person more in the long run—in terms of knowledge, experience, and self-satisfaction.
Dr. Jubayer Shamim began his journey at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) studying Mechanical Engineering. Later, through studies and research at Seoul National University in South Korea and the University of Tokyo in Japan, his life took on new dimensions. However, this path was not the blueprint of a predetermined dream. Rather, at different stages of life, he asked himself—what do I want? What kind of work can keep me interested for a long time? This self-questioning gradually drew him towards research.
He once held a stable job in the industrial sector. From the outside, it was a safe and respectable profession. But deep inside, he felt he was missing the thrill of research—the excitement of discovering something new, the adventure of finding the answers to questions. At that point, he faced another decision: should he hold on to the assurance of stability, or return to his true passion, even if it meant taking a less certain path? In this moment of doubt, his words take on even deeper meaning—the “wealth” gained by working for passion often cannot be measured by money, but it profoundly enriches the sense of meaning and satisfaction in life.
The road to becoming a scientist is long and arduous. It takes time to achieve results in research; sometimes there is failure, sometimes recognition comes late. On this long journey, external rewards alone cannot sustain a person. Inner interest, curiosity, and joy become the true driving forces. Dr. Jubayer Shamim’s words reflect this truth—a work born from love is something a person can stick with for a long time. And that consistency ultimately lays the foundation for great success.
This realization is especially important for the youth of Bangladesh. In an era of science and technology, the demand for skills is growing, but if you choose your path by looking only at market demand, you may not fully realize your true potential. Rather, by identifying your own area of interest and building skills there, you open up a world of diverse opportunities—in the country or abroad, in research or in industry.
Thus, Dr. Jubayer Shamim’s simple statement is not just a personal philosophy; it serves as a kind of guidance for the younger generation. It takes courage and patience to walk the path of passion. But it is on that path that one finds the potential for lasting fulfillment and a truly meaningful life.
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