America Bangladesh University illegal: UGC

The University Grants Commission on Thursday declared the activities of America Bangladesh University illegal and suggested students not to take admission at the private university.

The commission came up with the decision following the recommendation made by a probe committee formed to investigate irregularities of the university.

The commission also sent the investigation report to the Education Ministry for taking next course of action, UGC sources said.

The commission in the report mentioned that the activities of America Bangladesh University are creating a negative impression about the country’s higher education sector globally.

According to the report, as per Section 12(1) of Private University Act, 2010, the university has no legal authority to conduct its activities as it failed to apply for a certificate after its temporary permit expired.

It also said from 2006, the university has no vice-chancellor, pro vice-chancellor or treasurer appointed by the country’s president who is the chancellor of the university. So, currently, the university has no valid authority.

The commission report also said the academic programs of the university have lost validity as all the curriculum have not been updated.

UGC member Prof Biswajit Chanda said as per sections 17 and 19 of the Private Universities Act, the university’s academic, administrative, financial activities, admission, examination and results and academic certificates are illegal as there is no valid syndicate and academic council.

On August 19, 2002, the government gave approval to establish the America Bangladesh University but in 2006, the government declared closure of the university due to failure to comply with the conditions of the temporary permission and ensure quality education.

Challenging the government decision, the university authorities filed a writ petition with the High Court against the order and later, again started their activities through acquiring a stay order.

The commission also said at present, three parties claiming to be the board of trustees of the university and they are operating the activities from different addresses which are not legal as per law.