The Daily Star (TDS): What sets your university apart from others? What would you consider your key strengths?

Chan Joe Jim (CJJ): UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus takes pride in being the first foreign university branch campus in Bangladesh, approved by both the Ministry of Education in Bangladesh and Malaysia. We have launched our educational programmes at a state-of-the-art 15-storey campus located in Banani, Dhaka.

Our university is ranked 265th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Additionally, we are ranked 61st in Asia and 14th in Southeast Asia, leading the way among universities in Bangladesh.

We are the first institution in Bangladesh to offer international degrees in diverse fields such as Hotel Management, Fashion Design, and Mass Communication (with specialisations in Marketing, Journalism, Film, and Television). This initiative creates significant opportunities for women in Bangladesh to pursue internationally recognised higher education degrees.

Furthermore, we offer globally sought-after Bachelor's and Master's programmes, including Financial Economics, Supply Chain Operations Management, Hospitality Administration, Psychology, and Business Information Systems.

TDS: How does UCSI University's global ranking and reputation benefit local students studying at the Bangladesh branch campus?

CJJ: The global ranking and reputation of UCSI University are invaluable assets that directly benefit local students at our Bangladesh branch campus. Our students can take pride in being associated with a university that has a strong global presence. This recognition significantly enhances their credibility and competitiveness on a global scale, making them attractive candidates for further studies and job opportunities both locally and internationally.

Additionally, our extensive global network and partnerships with renowned institutions provide our students with exposure to diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This enrichment prepares them for success in an increasingly globalised world.

TDS: Tell us about some of the exclusive facilities your university offers to students.

CJJ: UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus is strategically located in Banani, at the heart of Dhaka city. Our campus is equipped with modern classrooms and specialised facilities, including a Computer Lab, Fashion Design Lab, Graphics and Multimedia Lab, Electronics Engineering Lab, and a well-stocked Library.

Our students also benefit from career and employment counselling provided by experienced local and international faculty. Furthermore, the Main Campus's Student Affairs and Alumni (SAA) Department supports our students in finding employment opportunities abroad.

TDS: What opportunities does your university provide to meritorious students?

CJJ: At UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus, we offer scholarships ranging from 20% to 100% for meritorious students. These scholarships are awarded based on the students' previous academic results and admission test performance. Each year, our university grants scholarships worth Tk 5 crore to outstanding students.

TDS: What steps are you taking to assist students as they enter their careers after graduation?

CJJ: Our experienced faculty members regularly emphasise the importance of research programmes to equip students with up-to-date education, helping them stay ahead in the modern workplace. Additionally, we organise seminars and workshops related to higher education and research on our campus to further support our students' career development.

TDS: What kind of careers are your students most likely to pursue?

CJJ: Since the UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus is a recent addition to Bangladesh, I can share that students from UCSI University Malaysia have excelled in careers across various sectors, including Communication Technology, International Quality Hotels, Fashion Design Institutes, Insurance Companies, and Government, Private, and Multinational Companies. They are successfully employed in numerous multinational companies around the world, such as Accenture, Citibank, Deloitte, DHL, Ernst & Young, Hewlett-Packard, HSBC, Nestlé, Samsung, Standard Chartered, and many more.

TDS: How much emphasis do you place on helping students develop their co-curricular skills?

CJJ: We place a strong emphasis on developing students' co-curricular skills, recognising their vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals. Our university has introduced a variety of clubs, including the Business Club, Adventure Club, Cultural Club, Debate Club, Photography Club, Football Club, and more, to nurture the diverse interests of our students.

These clubs offer opportunities for students to explore their passions, develop leadership and social skills, and actively engage with their peers. Our aim is for students to graduate with not only academic knowledge but also the practical skills and experiences necessary for success in their future endeavours.

TDS: What is the vision for the future of UCSI University Bangladesh Branch Campus to improve educational opportunities and learning experiences for local students?

CJJ: Moving forward, we have several strategic plans for the university's growth and development. One of our primary goals is to build a permanent campus in Bangladesh, modelled after our main campus in Malaysia. Additionally, we are continuously working on various initiatives to ensure our students have access to the latest facilities, making their learning experience truly innovative.

Our academic leadership includes a Malaysian Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Provost, along with prominent local and international faculty members. We have established various clubs under Student Affairs & Alumni that engage students in workshops, seminars, events, industrial visits, domestic and international tours, and humanitarian activities, helping them develop leadership, social, and human qualities.