The path to reforming private universities

Addressing the disparity between public and private universities is essential for the betterment of Bangladesh’s overall education system. Photo: Collected

Education shapes a society and also plays a key role in defining progress. Unfortunately, Bangladesh's education system lags not only behind advanced nations but also most mid-tier countries. 

The Global Knowledge Index 2023 places Bangladesh at 112th out of 133 countries, and 21st among 25 mid-level developing nations. 

Private universities have played a significant role in providing access to higher education, with the University Grants Commission (UGC) approving 112 institutions to date. 

The number of private universities continues to rise in response to growing demand. These institutions exert considerable influence on the intellectual development, work efficiency, and moral values of future generations.

However, many private universities are marred with a number of issues, which are hampering their potential growth. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the root causes of our educational challenges. 

One of the most pressing issues is the blurred relationship between private universities and their trustee boards. Many universities have been established for political or commercial gains rather than the advancement of education. 

This shortsightedness in financial decision-making often undermines academic excellence, and consequently, the nation's progress.

For example, many teachers at private universities are burdened with teaching 12 to 15 courses per year, far exceeding the UGC's recommended eight courses. Teachers are expected not only to teach but also to engage in research, a vital component of academia. 

However, the tri-semester system in many universities leaves little room for research, as professors are overwhelmed with teaching responsibilities. 

Despite the UGC's recommendation to transition to a bi-semester system, many institutions resist this change, prioritising business profits over educational quality. This shift is not only necessary but critical to enhancing academic standards and gaining global recognition.

Furthermore, certain academic disciplines are neglected due to low student enrolment, even though they hold significant long-term promise. The focus on short-term financial gains leads to the dismissal of these potentially valuable fields, stifling student growth and university development. 

Authorities pressure professors to increase enrolment numbers, often at the cost of delivering specialised and high-quality education. This creates a conflict between quantity and quality, where the former is prioritised over the latter.

Innovation in education requires financial investment. Universities must invest in research laboratories, libraries, and modern facilities tailored to emerging disciplines. Such infrastructure would attract talented students who can contribute to the university's growth and the country's future. 

As Benjamin Franklin once said, "Investment in education yields the greatest returns." A forward-thinking approach will not only benefit universities financially but also raise their global standing.

The excessive focus on short-term profits creates barriers to innovation and restricts universities from adapting to contemporary academic demands. 

This not only hampers the development of academic standards but also threatens the institution's ability to remain competitive in the global education landscape.

Professors play a pivotal role in shaping the minds of future generations. Their responsibilities extend far beyond classroom hours, often involving mentoring, research, and personal guidance. 

However, some university administrations fail to recognise this, equating professors' salaries strictly with their teaching hours. This lack of understanding undermines the academic profession and creates an unjust working environment for faculty members.

Transparency in the financial management of private universities is another area of concern. The misuse of student fees and donations from charitable institutions needs to be addressed with clear policies and proper oversight. 

Corruption within trustee boards, along with nepotism in staffing, only exacerbates these issues. It is common for unqualified individuals to be appointed to key positions, leading to inefficiency and financial mismanagement. 

Special projects are often approved for insiders, resulting in wasted resources and further damaging the university's academic environment.

The problem of nepotism is pervasive in private universities, where appointments are frequently made based on personal connections rather than merit. This creates an unhealthy work environment and compromises the quality of education. 

To maintain a high academic standard, it is essential to appoint qualified staff based on their credentials, not their connections. This will help curb the misuse of power and financial resources.

The role of the Vice-Chancellor (VC) is particularly significant in maintaining a university's integrity. 

However, many VCs at private universities find themselves reduced to being mere puppets of the trustees. This undermines the prestige of the position and damages the institution's reputation. 

Recent resignations of several VCs and senior officials highlight the failure of current appointment processes, which have tarnished the education sector. It is crucial to restore dignity to these roles by adopting transparent and merit-based selection procedures.

It is also alleged that private universities often face discriminatory treatment from the UGC, which favours public universities when allocating research grants. This marginalisation is unfair, as many renowned professors work at private institutions. 

The recent imposition of the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum without proper consultation has also been met with resistance. These policies burden private universities and hinder their ability to focus on their primary academic responsibilities.

Addressing the disparity between public and private universities is essential for the betterment of Bangladesh's overall education system. 

By recognising the contributions of professors at private universities, the country can benefit from their expertise, enhancing the quality of education nationwide. 

The government must work to eliminate these inequalities and create an environment where both public and private institutions can thrive.

An impartial and transparent dialogue is necessary to help trustee boards craft sound management policies. Such discussions must be free from political or commercial interests. 

Furthermore, government support is crucial to ensure the long-term development of both private and public institutions.

Throughout history, educators have illuminated the way for future generations, from the ancient Nalanda Mahavihara to the philosophers of the modern era. 

Nelson Mandela's words ring true: "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world." 

By embracing the challenges of the present, universities can foster a progressive and enlightened society. In doing so, Bangladesh can develop into a nation where education is highly valued, innovation thrives, and the term "brain drain" becomes obsolete.

To achieve this vision, long-term strategies are essential. Universities must be equipped with the necessary resources, and governance must be transparent and accountable. Only then can the dream of a globally competitive, educated Bangladesh become a reality.

Mahbubul Alam is a freelancer consultant and was an advisor at the Honorary Consulate of Bangladesh in Ukraine from its establishment till 2023.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.