Despite intimidation following a recent evaluation report on private universities the UGC will ensure quality education, Prof M Asaduzzaman, chairman of the commission, told a discussion in Dhaka yesterday.

"Some quarters have even threatened to kill me," said Asaduzzaman. "But we have found many incongruities in a number of institutions and we must correct those," he said.

One of the objectives of the Private University Act is to create efficient manpower, he added.

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Moudud Ahmed said new legislation will ensure accountability of private universities.

Vice-president of Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI) Abul Quasem Haider said the emergence of private universities has significantly prevented students from going abroad.

The discussion on role of private universities was organised by Asian University of Bangladesh marking the university's 9th founding anniversary.

Vice-chancellor of Asian University of Bangladesh Prof Abulhasan M Sadeq and Vice-chancellor of North South University Prof Hafiz GA Siddiqi also spoke at the discussion.