DU faculty propose 15 recommendations for higher education reform

The Dhaka University Faculty Association has submitted a comprehensive set of 15 proposals aimed at addressing various issues within the higher education sector.

The proposals were presented to Professor Dr SMA Faiz, chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), during a meeting at his office today (15 September).

The key recommendations include measures to combat irregularities, favouritism, and corruption in teacher recruitment processes at higher education institutions. The faculty also advocated for an increase in state funding for universities and a boost in the UGC's budget for research. Additionally, they called for initiatives to encourage joint research between public and private universities and to tackle bureaucratic inefficiencies.

A nine-member delegation from the Dhaka University Faculty Association, led by Associate Professor Dr. Khorshed Alam from the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, presented these proposals.

The meeting was attended by UGC members Dr Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan and Professor Dr Mohammad Anwar Hossain, along with Dr Shamsul Arefin, Director of Public Relations and Information Rights, and other relevant UGC officials.

UGC Chairman Professor Dr SMA Faiz assured the faculty that he would take effective measures to implement their recommendations. He promised that the UGC would provide necessary support to universities in executing any steps taken to ensure transparency in the teacher recruitment process. Furthermore, he committed to addressing any issues of opacity in research project evaluations and to expedite the disbursement of research funds.

Professor Dr Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan noted that Dhaka University, as an autonomous institution, could independently pursue the implementation of these reform proposals, with the UGC offering necessary assistance. He also highlighted the limitations of the UGC's capacity in higher education reforms, advocating for an increase in its empowerment.

Professor Dr Mohammad Anwar Hossain emphasized that the education system should cater to marginalized communities and support the establishment of justice in society. He urged stakeholders to take initiative to integrate research into the mainstream of higher education.

The delegation proposed increasing financial allocations to existing research centres at Dhaka University and undertaking infrastructural improvements to enhance the quality of research to international standards. They also suggested instituting an annual 'UGC Research Award' for 100 university teachers and proposed the creation of a 'UGC PhD Researcher Award' for doctoral researchers across various universities.

The Dhaka University Faculty Association representatives included Professor Robayet Ferdous, Professor Dr. Israrfil Shaheen, Professor Dr. Atonu Rabbani, Dr. Md. Ahsan Habib, Professor Ishani Chakraborty, Professor Zubaida Nasrin, Professor Gausia Wahidunnesa Choudhury, Associate Professor Dr. Khorshed Alam, and Professor Sangita Ahmed.