NU signs deal with AQA Global to modernise exams and assessment

National University has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK's AQA Global to modernise its examination and assessment systems through greater use of technology, improved accuracy and efficiency, and the introduction of international assessment standards.

The university signed the agreement in the vice-chancellor's conference room on campus in Gazipur on Thursday, 1 October, 2026. This is AQA Global's first agreement with an institution in Bangladesh, according to the press release.

Under the agreement, the university's examination and assessment processes will be reviewed to identify areas requiring modernisation. Alongside digitising different stages of examination management, the collaboration will prioritise transparency, accuracy, speed and accountability.

National University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ASM Amanullah said, "National University has a vast student population. Managing examinations and assessments on this scale requires us to make the fullest use of technology alongside conventional methods. We want the entire examination process to become faster, more accurate and more transparent. We also need to use technology to minimise the scope for human error."

He added, "We must draw on the experience of advanced assessment systems in different countries. This collaboration with AQA Global has created that opportunity. This is more than an agreement; it is an important step towards preparing National University's examination and assessment systems for the future."

Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Ali Jinnah said, "Our work must align with the Bangladesh National Qualifications Framework and the outcome-based education framework. Beginning on a small scale with support from partner institutions would allow us to gain practical experience. The benefits would extend beyond National University. If implemented successfully, this could become a model for Bangladesh's education system."

National University Treasurer Professor Dr Md Nazmul Hossain said, "We are exploring whether we can begin with a single course or a specific activity as a pilot, rather than starting on a large scale. If this small-scale initiative succeeds with AQA Global's support, it will create opportunities for expansion. This approach will reduce risks and enable us to make decisions based on practical experience."

AQA Global Director of International Business Sean Crowley said, "We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with National University. We want to use our international experience to help modernise the examination and assessment systems of such a large higher education institution. At the same time, our work will be guided by Bangladesh's context and National University's needs."

He added, "This collaboration is not limited to improving examination methods. It also offers opportunities for international recognition of students' qualifications. If an opportunity is created to include OxfordAQA accreditation on students' certificates, it could help strengthen the recognition of their qualifications for higher education and employment at home and abroad."

Others present at the signing ceremony included Registrar Molla Mahfuz Al-Hosen, Regional Centre Coordination Office Director Md Aminul Aktar, Chief Engineer Md Mizanur Rahman, Teacher Training Office Director Salma Parvin and International Desk Director Raj Bin Kashem.

AQA Global Lead International for Business Development Syed Shah and Country Director for Bangladesh and Nepal Shahin Reza also attended, alongside senior officials from the university and AQA Global.