Our Team

The Institute is driven by a dedicated and multidisciplinary team committed to advancing judicial reform, research, and access to justice. Our structure brings together leadership, researchers, program specialists, and communication professionals to ensure effective implementation of our mission.

Founder & Executive Director

Provides strategic vision and institutional leadership, guiding research priorities, partnerships, and program development while representing the Institute at national and international platforms.

Jeba Mobashwira

Founder & Executive Director

Jeba Mobashwira is a research-driven legal and development professional and an enrolled Advocate at the District & Sessions Judge Court, Dhaka. She currently serves as a Law Desk Intern at The Daily Star, where she has also been an official contributor, and as a Legal Associate at MentorIP. She previously served as a Legal Associate at the law firms Legal Mart and Reza & Associates and worked as an Apprentice Lawyer at the District & Sessions Judge Court, Dhaka.
Her development experience with international and national organisations includes involvement with the British Red Cross/IFRC, SERAC-Bangladesh, and Map of Justice. Her international and civic engagements include the HISA Youth Fellowship (Oxford, UK), the Shadow Youth Parliament by UN Bangladesh, and the 10th International Youth Conference.
She served as the Lead Researcher at the 14th Henry Dunant Memorial Moot Court Competition and as a Senior Executive at the BUP Law & Moot Court Club. Jeba holds LL.B. (Hons) and LL.M. degrees from the Bangladesh University of Professionals. Her research interests include international human rights law, intellectual property law, environmental law, gender justice, constitutional law, and access to justice.

Advisory Panel

The Bangladesh Institute for Judicial Advancement (BIJA) is guided by a distinguished advisory body composed of experts in law, human rights, judicial reform, digital literacy, and policy advocacy. Our advisory members provide strategic guidance, share insights from their extensive professional experience, and help shape programs that strengthen judicial systems and promote equitable access to justice. We are honored to invite dynamic professionals, researchers, and leaders to join BIJA’s advisory body, where your expertise and guidance will be invaluable in advancing our initiatives and addressing the needs of diverse communities.

Dr. Abed Chaudhury

Dr. Abed Chaudhury  is a renowned genetic scientist and agricultural researcher known for his pioneering work in crop genetics, sustainable agriculture, and climate mitigation. He has developed innovative approaches, including multi‑harvest rice cultivation and strategies to reduce methane emissions from livestock, contributing to food security and environmental sustainability. With decades of experience in research, policy, and rural development, he bridges science and practical solutions for societal challenges.

As a member of the advisory body at BIJA (Bangladesh Institute for Judicial Advancement), Dr. Chaudhury will provide valuable guidance on integrating evidence-based solutions into judicial research, policy development, and program design. His expertise will help BIJA to promote innovative solutions and enhance capacity-building initiatives that link environmental and social considerations with equitable access to justice.

RaisuL Sourav

RaisuL Sourav is presently pursuing a PhD in Law at the School of Law, University of Galway, Republic of Ireland. He is an Associate Professor (on leave) & former Chair, Department of Law at Dhaka International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh. RaisuL is also an Advocate (Lawyer) at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. 

He holds a Master’s Degree in International Energy Law and Policy from the University of Stirling in the UK. He was a recipient of the prestigious British Chevening Scholarship in 2017-18. He has been awarded a Scholarship and Stipend by the College of Business, Public Policy and Law, University of Galway to pursue his PhD. RaisuL regularly writes in academic journals, blogs and newspapers, and presents his research in reputed academic conferences. He can be reached at M.SOURAV1@universityofgalway.ie

H M Nazmul Alam

H M Nazmul Alam is a Bangladeshi academic, journalist, and columnist known for his sharp social commentary and thought-provoking opinion pieces. His writings often explore themes of justice, political culture, public morality, and the everyday struggles of people in developing societies. He earned his BA in English and MA in Literature from the Department of English, University of Dhaka before beginning his career in journalism. The early part of his professional journey was spent as an Assistant Editor at The Daily Ittefaq, one of Bangladesh’s oldest newspapers. 

He later joined the Department of English and Modern Languages at International University of Business, Agriculture and Technology. Alongside academia, he writes regularly for leading local and international outlets blending scholarly insight with contemporary commentary.

Shams Nazib Ark

Shams Nazib Ark currently serves as Legal In-charge at Prothom Alo. He holds an LL.B (Hons.) and LL.M from the University of Chittagong and is an enrolled Advocate of the Bangladesh Bar Council as well as a member of the Dhaka Bar Association.

Previously, he worked as Deputy Director (Legal) at Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC, Law Officer at ACI Ltd and the Honorary Consulate of Belgium, and Researcher (Legal) at Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB). Earlier in his career, he was recommended as a Probationary Officer at Bangladesh Commerce Bank.

Editorial Board

Md. Arif Rayhan

Editor

Md. Arif Rayhan is a legal practitioner and scholar, with a deep commitment to understanding how law, technology, and judicial institutions intersect. As an Advocate before the District and Session Judge Court, he works directly with clients and cases every day, experience that keeps his scholarship grounded in the real-world challenges of Bangladesh’s legal system—bringing courtroom experience to his academic work.
His academic journey includes an LL.M. from Bangladesh University of Professionals and an LL.B. from Metropolitan University, both with First Class honours. Over the years, he has contributed to legal scholarship through numerous publications in national and international journals including the Journal of National Law University Delhi, the Bangladesh Journal of Law, and the Indian Journal of Law and Justice, exploring themes of constitutional law, judicial accountability, and access to justice. His current research focuses on Public Interest Litigation and judicial activism in South Asia, with comparative work extending to India and the United Kingdom.
Arif is also deeply interested in the growing role of technology in law. He has presented research on artificial intelligence, digital privacy, and fundamental rights at national and international conferences. His professional experience includes developing digital legal content, auditing compliance processes, and training professionals on data protection.
At the heart of his work is a simple goal to bridge the gap between legal practice, academic research, and the pursuit of a more accessible and accountable justice system in Bangladesh.

Md. Tanvir Mahtab

Editor

Md. Tanvir Mahtab is a Lecturer in the Department of Law at Eastern University. He holds an LL.B. and LL.M. from Eastern University, where he was awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Award for academic excellence. He is a former President of the Eastern University Moot Court Society and led his team to become national champions in the Philip C. Jessup Moot Court Competition in 2021.
Mr. Mahtab began his legal career at I.H. Khan & Associates, where he served as a Senior Research Associate before being enrolled as an Advocate in 2024. Prior to his current role, he served as a Lecturer at Bangladesh University. He also serves as an Editor for Ember és Jog Jogtudományi Folyóirat and remains committed to advancing legal research and academic development in Bangladesh.

C.A.M. Al Wahi

Editor

C.A.M. Al Wahi is an academic researcher and legal professional with a specialized focus on maritime law, international environmental governance, maritime human rights, arbitration and the Blue Economy. He is currently pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM-Professional) at the Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) and holds an LL.B. from Bangladesh Maritime University.
Wahi brings significant editorial experience to BIJA, currently serving as an Associate Editor for
NILS Bangladesh and as a reviewer for international academic journals . His research on shipping decarbonization and maritime security has been featured in the Asian Journal of Law and Policy and the Bangladesh Maritime Journal . In addition to his academic pursuits, he serves as an Apprentice Lawyer at the District and Sessions Judge’s Court, Dhaka, where he applies his legal training to practical advocacy.

ERA SHARMILA KHAN

Junior Editor

Courageous and committed law graduate with an LL.B. from BRAC University and currently pursuing an LL.M. at BUP. Previously worked as a legal intern at Chevron, gaining hands-on experience in corporate legal matters. Known for being reliable, detail-oriented, and highly organized, with strong research, writing, and analytical skills. Passionate about legal research in women’s rights, human rights, and gender justice, with a strong drive to grow, take on challenges, and contribute meaningfully to impactful legal work.

Executive Members

Provides strategic leadership and oversees the overall governance and operations of the Institute, ensuring that programs and research initiatives align with its mission and objectives. It manages partnerships, supervises implementation, and upholds accountability and professional standards while representing the Institute in stakeholder engagement.

Isha Bin Karim

Isha Bin Karim currently serves as Legal Counsel at Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd., where he advises on corporate and commercial matters, including contract negotiation, intellectual property, labour issues, and regulatory compliance. He holds an LL.M and LL.B from the University of Dhaka, with academic concentration in Company Law, Business Law, and Intellectual Property Law. Previously, he worked as a Legal Associate at Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Associate at The Legal Remedy, Law Officer at the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Foundation, Bangladesh, and began his career as a legal intern at The Legal Remedy, gaining extensive experience in corporate legal practice, compliance, and dispute management.

Md. Showkatul Alam

Md. Showkatul Alam is currently serving as a Corporate Legal Associate and Legal Adviser at Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd., a role he has held since May 2022. He completed both his Master of Laws (LL.M.) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Dhaka.

He began his professional legal career as a practising lawyer enrolled under the Dhaka Bar Association in January 2022 and has since gained experience in corporate legal practice alongside litigation engagement.

Research Team

Leads the development of evidence-based studies, policy analysis, and scholarly publications. The team conducts legal research, case analysis, and comparative studies to inform judicial reform and knowledge dissemination.

Shawlin Jahan Shefa

Research Lead

Shawlin Jahan Shefa is a law graduate and LL.M. candidate at Bangladesh University of Professionals, specializing in human rights, constitutional, and international criminal law. Her research focuses on accountability, transitional justice, and the protection of marginalized communities, particularly the Rohingya population. She has conducted field research in refugee camps and published on judicial independence and comparative constitutional law. She also has experience in legal research, environmental governance projects, and regulatory compliance through her role at Banglalink.

Tonima Binta Saidur

Research Intern

Tonima Binta Saidur is a law graduate from Jahangirnagar University with focused interests in Human Rights Law, Refugee and Minority Rights, Constitutional Law, Labour Law, and Environmental Law. She has experience in legal research, policy writing, and advocacy initiatives, including her involvement with GoProbono, a government-recognized legal database platform.

She aspires to pursue a career in the judiciary and is deeply committed to promoting justice and ensuring access to rights. She is dedicated to advancing justice through research, reform-oriented work, and meaningful legal engagement.

Hassan Hassan Babatunde

Research Intern

Hassan Hassan Babatunde is a final-year law student at Kwara State University, Malete, with a strong passion for leadership, public speaking, community engagement, writing, and research. He is from Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Hassan. He gained practical legal experience as an intern at T.M. Onaolapo & Co (2023–2024), where he drafted petitions, reviewed client briefs, addressed clients, and represented the principal.

He has held key leadership roles, including President of the Law Students’ Society and Director of Publicity in major student associations, where he organized mooting competitions, judicial summits, symposiums, and student engagement initiatives. Hassan is committed to professional growth and contributing meaningfully to the legal community.

Nawmi Nawroz

Research Intern

Nawmi Nawroz is a law graduate from Jahangirnagar University with a keen interest in legal research, human rights, access to justice, and judicial reform. She has participated in academic and research initiatives focusing on international law, the rights of marginalized and disadvantaged communities, accountability within legal systems, and the development of institutional legal frameworks.

Her interests include examining how research, policy reform, and technological advancements can enhance the efficiency, transparency, and inclusiveness of legal processes. She is committed to strengthening legal frameworks through rigorous research and critical analysis.

Nusaibah Nurudeen Motunrayo

Research Intern

Nusaibah Nurudeen Motunrayo is a law student at Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria, passionate about research, learning, and exploring how law affects society. She is particularly interested in inclusive justice and judicial accessibility. She has held leadership roles, including Public Relations Officer at Wole Olanipekun Chamber, Publicity Secretary at NAMLAS Sisters Association, and General/Assistant Secretary at MSSN, KWASU, gaining experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, event coordination, and documentation.

Abdulwahab Maryam Folashade

Research Intern

Abdulwahab Maryam Folashade is a dedicated law student at Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria. with a strong academic record. I have a keen interest in legal research, advocacy, and the development of effective legal frameworks that promote social justice in Nigeria. I am passionate about personal and professional development, and I consistently seek opportunities to build my knowledge through academic work, internships, and community engagement. I have demonstrated strong skills in legal writing, communication, and critical analysis.

Mir Fahmida Sultana

Research Intern

Mir Fahmida Sultana is a final-year LL.B. (Hons) student with a strong commitment to legal research and the practical application of law. Her academic interests include Public International Law, Environmental Law, and Constitutional Law. She is currently advancing these interests as a Research Fellow at the Bangladesh Society for Human Rights Law Studies (BSHRLS) and as a Legal Research and Writing Intern at Ain Sheba. She has received academic recognition, including First Place in a university-level writing competition and distinctions for academic excellence. She was awarded First Best Memorial at the Intra-Department Moot Court Competition and secured second place in the 2026 SCLS Legal Blog Contest. Additionally, she presented research on the Rohingya crisis at the 2nd FASS International Conference and contributed scholarly analysis on de-extinction ethics to the SCLS Blog. Her long-term goal is to pursue a career in academia and legal research.

Arnold Drong

Research Intern

Arnold Drong has completed his Honours and Master’s degree in International Relations from
Jahangirnagar University and currently serves as a Research Intern at Bangladesh Institute for Judicial Advancement (BIJA). His interests include human rights, inclusive development, governance reform, access to justice, inclusive judiciary systems and institutional capacity building. He has experience in qualitative research, policy documentation and stakeholder engagement with a focus on minority rights and equitable institutional development.

Sabrina Sadia Ria

Research Intern

Sabrina Sadia Ria is currently a final-year LL.B. (Hons.) student at the Department of Law, University of Dhaka. She works as an Associate Editor at the Dhaka Law Review (DHLR). She is also an Official Contributor for the Law and Our Rights page, The Daily Star. Besides, she serves as a Member of the Asia Front and Bangladesh National Front at World’s Youth For Climate Justice (WYCJ), where she focuses her work on legal and policy research.Her research interests are based on Environmental Law, International Law, Criminal Justice System, and Women and Children’s Rights.

Abdulganiy Kehinde Ambali

Research Intern

Abdulganiy Kehinde Ambali is a Law student at Kwara State University, Nigeria, specializing in both Common Law and Islamic Law. His academic and research interests include judicial reform, constitutional law, comparative legal systems, and the integration of faith-based ethical values within contemporary legal institutions. He has actively engaged in academic research, legal writing, and policy-oriented discourse, contributing to constitutional review initiatives as a member of the Constitutional Review Committee, Law Students’ Society, and participating in clinical legal engagement through the Law Clinic Committee. An active moot court participant, he has developed strong advocacy, analytical reasoning, and structured legal writing skills. He also serves as Director of Media and Publications for NAMLAS, where he provides leadership in institutional communication, strategic content development, and coordinated public engagement.

Asif Rahman

Research Intern

Asif Rahman is a dedicated apprentice lawyer of the Dhaka Judge Court. He pursued LL.B. from East West University, where he served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (UTA) in the Law Department, supporting academic instruction and student development. Now advancing his expertise by pursuing an LL.M. at BRAC University. He is a passionate moot court and debate enthusiast. Asif has actively participated in national and international competitions like the 3rd TIB-DUMCS Anti-Corruption Moot Court Competition 2023, the 15th Henry Dunant Memorial Moot Court Competition 2024, the 9th Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court
Competition 2025, the 5th PGCL SAARC International Moot Court Competition 2025, and the BUP National Moot Court Competition 2025

Program Management Team

Designs and implements initiatives, workshops, campaigns, and capacity-building activities. This team coordinates stakeholder engagement, project execution, monitoring, and evaluation.

Emam Hosain Ridoy

LL.B and LL.M graduate from the Bangladesh University of Professionals with a strong academic background. Experienced as a Sales Executive at Universal IT, where responsibilities included daily client communication and customer engagement in an international setting. Actively involved in managing a family-run cotton transportation and retail business, gaining practical experience in entrepreneurship, operations, and business management. Served as Organising Secretary of Bangladesh Law Alliance, contributing to organisational coordination and leadership activities. Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word and PowerPoint), effective communication, organisation, time management, product knowledge, maintaining a positive attitude, and demonstrating patience in professional settings.

Khadiza Tull Rima

Program and Advocacy Intern

Khadiza Tull Rima is an LL.B. and LL.M. graduate from the Bangladesh University of Professionals with practical experience at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. As an Apprentice Lawyer since March 2024, she handles ACC, Writ, and Criminal matters, ensuring accurate documentation and procedural compliance. She also served as a Class Representative and an Executive Member of the BUP Law and Moot Court Club, and contributed to a field-level project addressing Rohingya human trafficking in Bangladesh.

Adnan Sazid

Program and Advocacy Intern

Adnan Sazid is a second-year Bachelor of Laws (LLB) student at Premier University, Chittagong, with a commendable record. He holds a genuine passion for criminal law, constitutional law, and human rights. His hands-on experience in legal research, case analysis, and moot court — alongside active participation in national debates across the country — reflects his strong academic foundation and proficiency in justice-driven work and advocacy.

Campus Ambassador

Campus Ambassadors promote our mission within academic institutions by disseminating socio-legal knowledge and raising awareness on justice, rights, and equity. They strengthen collaboration and actively engage students and faculty in meaningful dialogue to build an informed and inclusive academic community.

Miftahul Jannat

Miftahul Jannat is currently studying at Jagannath University. She possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling her to effectively represent the organization and engage with students. She demonstrates leadership ability, confidence in public speaking, and strong networking skills, which help her build meaningful connections on campus. She also has good organizational and time management skills, allowing her to balance academic responsibilities with promotional activities and events. Additionally, she has basic knowledge of social media and marketing strategies, which supports increased outreach and visibility.

Surja Mandal

Surja Mandal is currently pursuing an LL.B. at the Department of Law, World University of Bangladesh. He is passionate about legal research, writing, and promoting socio-legal awareness among students and the wider community. Surja has authored several articles for national newspapers and has experience as a Campus Ambassador, engaging students in academic and legal initiatives. Through these experiences, he has developed strong skills in communication, leadership, legal writing, and research. He is eager to contribute his energy and commitment to advancing justice and legal education.

Shabiha Sultana Faria

Shabiha Sultana Faria is a motivated LL.B. (Honours) student at the University of Brahmanbaria, currently in her second year with a consistently strong academic record. Her experience includes significant leadership and advocacy roles, including serving as the President of the National Children Task Force (NCTF) and as a District Volunteer for Save the Children. Through her active participation in the Brahmanbaria Debating Society and the UOB Law Society, she has developed a versatile skill set in legal research, public speaking, and project management. Additionally, she is a multilingual communicator, proficient in Bengali, English, and Urdu, with a strong interest in constitutional law and community engagement.

Md. Iftakhar Asif

Md. Iftakhar Asif is a dedicated Bangladeshi law student at the World University of Bangladesh (WUB), committed to justice, human rights, and socio-legal awareness. He possesses strong skills in legal research and writing, bilingual communication (Bangla and English), and academic engagement. He has actively participated in seminars and workshops on constitutional reform, environmental protection, and dispute resolution. His article, “Impact of Legalising the Informal Sector on GDP Growth,” was published in the The Daily Sun.

Tarek Rahman

Tarek Rahman is currently a student in the Department of Law at Bangladesh University. He serves as a Campus Ambassador for Legal Empowerment of Bangladesh (LEB), where he actively promotes legal awareness and encourages youth participation in legal education initiatives. Through his academic journey and ambassadorial role, he has developed strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills. He is particularly interested in judicial development, legal research, and community-based legal empowerment.

Abdullah Al Noman

Abdullah Al Noman is a law student at Gopalganj Science and Technology University, Bangladesh. He has a strong interest in constitutional law, human rights, and legal research. Noman is passionate about legal writing and regularly explores contemporary legal and socio-political issues through analysis and discussion. He actively participates in academic programs, workshops, and initiatives that promote legal knowledge and professional development. Through his academic journey, he aims to strengthen his research and advocacy skills. He aspires to contribute to the advancement of justice and the rule of law in Bangladesh.

Media & Communications Team

Manages outreach, public engagement, and digital presence. The team oversees media relations, website content, social media communication, and dissemination of research and program outputs.

Together, our team works collaboratively to promote excellence in the judiciary, strengthen access to justice, and foster innovation through research and engagement.