Practical initiatives needed for education reform, says Professor Amanullah

Reforming Bangladesh's education system is essential to address national and global challenges, said Professor Dr A S M Amanullah, Vice-Chancellor of National University. Speaking at a dialogue organised by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) on Sunday, he urged stakeholders to prioritise research-based reforms, especially within the National University, which oversees 70 percent of the country's higher education.

The event, titled 365 Days of the Interim Government, was held at La Vita Hall, Lakeshore Hotel, Gulshan 2. Chaired by CPD Distinguished Fellow Professor Mustafizur Rahman, it featured keynote remarks from CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun. Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain, Labour and Employment Adviser to the Interim Government, attended as chief guest.

Professor Amanullah highlighted the university's role since its establishment in 1992 but noted a lack of research assessing its impact on higher education quality. Despite producing over one million graduates annually, concerns persist over their workplace readiness.

He emphasised initiatives to equip students with employable skills, including compulsory IT and English courses. However, challenges remain, such as weak governance, lack of accountability, limited professional capacity among college teachers, and the undue influence of college managing committees.

The dialogue brought together academics, politicians, economists, business leaders, and representatives from various reform commissions. Discussions covered a broad range of topics including law and order, police reform, banking sector reform, healthcare, constitutional amendments, and freedom of expression.