Preparing graduates for the world with Eastern University’s international vision

At Eastern University, we firmly believe that partnerships with foreign institutions are not merely formalities, but essential pathways to preparing our students for a globalised world.

Over the years, we have cultivated collaborations with universities and research institutions in Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, China, and The Gambia, creating tangible opportunities for both academic and professional growth.

For instance, last year, eight of our students participated in a fully funded internship programme in Japan. During their time there, they gained hands-on experience in technology and innovation, learning from professionals who are at the forefront of their fields. Some of these students have already received job offers from Japanese companies—a testament to the value of such initiatives in bridging classroom learning with practical industry experience. Similarly, through our recent 7th International Conference on Integrated Sciences (ICIS 2025), jointly organised with the International Open University (IOU) in The Gambia, our students and faculty had the opportunity to engage with global experts on Artificial Intelligence, examining its ethical, scientific, and business applications. Initiatives like these not only enrich our students' academic journey but also embed them firmly within international professional and academic networks.

These collaborations play a critical role in enhancing the academic quality and global competitiveness of our graduates. By interacting with international experts and being exposed to diverse educational methodologies, our students develop broader perspectives, gain access to global best practices, and refine their research capabilities. The Japan internship programme and ICIS 2025 conference, for example, equip students with enhanced problem-solving skills, intercultural understanding, and self-confidence—qualities that distinguish them in both local and international job markets. Such exposure ensures our graduates are not only academically competent but also adaptable, innovative, and ready to meet the demands of a global workforce.

However, forming and maintaining meaningful international collaborations is not without its challenges. Many universities in Bangladesh sign numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) but struggle to translate them into actionable programmes. Common obstacles include limited financial resources, bureaucratic rigidity, and insufficient follow-up. At Eastern University, we take a different approach. We prioritise quality over quantity, ensuring that every MoU we enter has a clearly defined purpose—whether for research collaboration, student mobility, or joint events. Our partnership with IOU for ICIS 2025 and our sustained engagement with Japanese institutions exemplify how mutual objectives, careful planning, and continuous dialogue are key to the success and sustainability of international affiliations.

Beyond academic advancement, these collaborations significantly bolster research output and faculty development. Our faculty members regularly present papers and co-author publications with international peers, raising both the visibility and standard of our research. We also conduct frequent workshops and webinars in collaboration with partner universities, allowing faculty to update their teaching methodologies, learn emerging research techniques, and align with global academic standards. In this way, international engagement strengthens not only student learning but the overall intellectual ecosystem of our university.

The benefits extend well beyond the classroom. International collaborations help prepare students for the demands of the global job market by cultivating adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and teamwork—skills that are increasingly vital in the 21st century. During our foreign internship programmes, students work alongside international professionals, experience foreign work cultures, and internalise the discipline, innovation, and collaborative practices that such environments demand. Exposure to international conferences and lectures further broadens their worldview, combining practical experience with global academic insight, and giving our graduates a distinct competitive edge in both domestic and overseas employment markets.

Looking ahead, we plan to deepen our engagement with East Asia, particularly Japan and South Korea, given the impressive outcomes of our recent student exchange programmes. We are also expanding collaborations in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and North America, recognising the growing relevance of these regions to Bangladesh's economy and workforce development. Our focus is on fostering cooperation in Artificial Intelligence, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and Islamic paradigms, ensuring that our partnerships deliver long-term academic, ethical, and professional impact.

Importantly, global exposure is equally beneficial for preparing students to meet the expectations of the Bangladeshi job market. Employers today seek graduates who are globally aware, technologically adept, and highly adaptable. By engaging with international mentors, participating in AI-driven research, and attending global conferences, our students acquire competencies that make them valuable assets in local organisations. They emerge as effective communicators, critical thinkers, and innovative problem-solvers—qualities sought by both multinational companies and domestic enterprises.

Recognising that many graduates still face challenges in local job placements, Eastern University has developed a robust strategy to strengthen industry linkages. Our Center for Placement and Student Affairs actively facilitates connections between students and employers through internships, job fairs, and professional workshops.

In addition, our Industry-Academia Dialogue Series provides a platform for employers to interact directly with students and faculty, ensuring that academic programmes remain closely aligned with market needs. Lessons learned from international programmes—such as teamwork, discipline, and innovation—are systematically integrated into these initiatives, helping to produce graduates who are not only employable but also capable of contributing meaningfully to Bangladesh's development.

At Eastern University, we regard global engagement as a bridge connecting international excellence with national progress. Our vision is to cultivate graduates who can thrive anywhere—be it in Dhaka or on the global stage—armed with knowledge, ethics, and innovation. Through strategic partnerships, hands-on experiences, and exposure to global academic networks, we strive to prepare students to become leaders, innovators, and responsible professionals capable of making a tangible impact both at home and abroad.