Education adviser says govt to facilitate private universities
The education ministry will act as a facilitator rather than a regulator for universities, ensuring institutional autonomy and academic freedom while assisting to strengthen academic and administrative capacities.
Professor CR Abrar, education adviser, made these remarks during a discussion with leaders of the Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh (APUB) at the Secretariat today, according to an APUB press release.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Professor CR Abrar said that the introduction of PhD programmes in private universities would foster research and innovation, benefiting the nation. He assured that the ministry would provide necessary support in this regard.
Highlighting the importance of aligning education with industrial demands, he stressed the need for skill-based and practical training programmes to enhance students' employability.
On the other hand, APUB leaders stated that private universities are actively working to strengthen academia-industry ties to boost student competencies and expand job opportunities. They underscored the need to further intensify these efforts, said the press release.
Md Sabur Khan, APUB chairman, raised concerns about taxation on non-profit private universities. He suggested reallocating taxes to fund research initiatives, arguing that such investments would contribute to innovative research, technological advancements, and improved education quality. This move would equip students with research skills, enhancing their ability to compete globally, he added.
Regarding the recruitment of vice-chancellors, pro vice-chancellors, and treasurers in private universities, APUB Secretary General Ishtiaque Abedin said that the requirement for three nominees with 15 to 20 years of experience for each position poses a challenge due to the limited number of highly qualified professors.
APUB Treasurer KBM Moin Uddin Chishti highlighted the financial strain of building fully-fledged university campuses.
He said that constructing quality campuses requires several hundred crores of taka, and legal constraints often make it difficult to secure funding after land acquisition through private investment. He urged the government to facilitate low-interest bank loans to support campus development.
APUB Executive Committee Member Qayum Reza Chowdhury was also present at the meeting among others.
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