UGC set to formulate policy for new public universities

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has formed a five-member committee tasked to formulate a policy regarding the commencement of academic activities at newly established public universities.

The committee comprises UGC member Prof Dr Muhammad Alamgir, Bangladesh Accreditation Council member Prof Dr Sanjay Kumar Adhikari, Bangladesh Open University Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mahbuba Nasrin, Khulna University’s School of Science Dean Prof Dr Afroza Parvin, and UGC’s Department of Public University Management Deputy Director Mouli Azad.

Recently, it has been noticed that most new public universities are beginning their academic activities without any prior preparation, said a UGC press release.

Besides, it said, they are carrying out their academic activities in rented buildings. As a result, the mental growth of students is getting hampered and issues are arising in the learning process. Overall, the quality of education is falling. That’s why the need to formulate a policy has become so urgent.

At the virtual meeting of the committee, Alamgir said that the new public universities are running their academic programmes without finalising infrastructure and curriculum.

“Students are getting deprived of a proper learning environment due to a lack of policies. If we can formulate a policy, ambience for higher studies and research will be ensured and competent graduates of global standards will be created,” said Alamgir.

The other members of the committee pointed out that while there is a shortage of senior teachers, new public universities usually try to conduct their academic programmes with junior teachers. They stressed the need to create an academic master plan for the new universities.

The members also said that the committee will arrange meetings and seminars with related stakeholders once the draft of the policy has been formulated.