Milon advises UGC to formulate integrated plan for development of higher education
Describing the UGC as the focal point of the country’s higher education, he said the success and failure of higher education depend on the UGC
Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon today (4 March) advised the University Grants Commission (UGC) to formulate an integrated plan on its own initiative to improve the quality of higher education instead of remaining confined only to supervising the activities of the country's universities.
He also suggested introducing skill- and demand-based education curricula in universities to develop human resources suited to the needs of the global labour market.
The education minister made the remarks at an exchange of views meeting with UGC officials and employees at the UGC Bhaban, said a press release.
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Describing the UGC as the focal point of the country's higher education, he said the success and failure of higher education depend on the UGC.
As the higher education sector is gradually expanding, he instructed the commission to properly supervise and advance the activities of universities.
He urged the UGC to inform the Ministry of Education in writing about its achievements after 2024 and its future action plan.
Regarding Dhaka Central University, the minister said a temporary solution has been reached regarding the seven colleges. He said discussions with stakeholders would be held soon to reach a permanent solution to the crisis.
Speaking as the chair, UGC Chairman Prof Dr SMA Faiz said the present government is giving the highest priority to the education sector, which he believes will benefit the country.
Referring to Pakistan's progress in higher education, he said that although Pakistan lags behind Bangladesh in various development indicators, it has achieved commendable progress in higher education.
Remarkable research activities are being conducted there due to the necessary allocation of funds for education and research, he said, expressing hope that with appropriate measures, Bangladesh could reach a similar position within five to ten years.
At the meeting, he also urged the government to increase residential facilities and scholarship opportunities for female university students.
UGC Members Professor Dr Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan delivered the welcome address, while Professor Dr Masuma Habib presented the history, activities, achievements and future work plan of the UGC.
UGC Members Prof Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Prof Md Saidur Rahman and Prof Mohammad Aiyub Islam and Secretary Md Fakhrul Islam were present, among others.
On behalf of the UGC, demands were placed for speedy approval of the Higher Education Commission Act, amendment of the UGC service rules, resolution of housing problems of officials and employees and revival of the SAARC fellowship.
