Photo : Collected

DHAKA, Aug 31, 2025 (BSS) - The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh has recommended updating university curricula by including concepts related to Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) and Communication for Development (C4D) in line with global demand and transformation.

The recommendation came during a two-day workshop jointly organised by UGC and UNICEF, which began today (Sunday) at BRAC CDM in Rajendrapur.

The event focused on reviewing existing C4D curricula and exploring ways to make it more inclusive of all social groups.

Speaking as the chief guest, UGC Member Professor Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain emphasized the need for curricula to reflect the realities of social and behavioral issues and promote the inclusion of marginalized communities into the mainstream.

"Understanding individuals' social positions, assessing their needs, and ensuring effective participation in development initiatives are essential. Social and behaviour change and communication for development can play a significant role to achieve this," he added.

Acting Director of UGC's International Cooperation Division Jasmine Parvin presided over the opening session and its Deputy Director Mohammad Nazrul Islam conducted it. 

UGC Member Prof Dr. Mashuma Habib joined the session as special guest.
 
Dr. Habib stated that several universities are already offering C4D-related courses at the undergraduate level. "Through this initiative, we aim to identify any limitations in the current curriculum and develop an appropriate model that supports students' learning in SBC and C4D," she added.

Experienced faculty and researchers from universities such as the University of Dhaka, Rajshahi University (RU), Chittagong University (CU), Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST), Khulna University (KU), University of Barishal, Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP), Patuakhali Science and Technology University, 
University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) and Khwaja Yunus Ali University participated in the session.

Representatives from UNICEF and UGC Assistant Director of the International Cooperation Division were also present.

UGC first initiated efforts to include Communication for Development in university curricula in 2017, with support from UNICEF. 

This workshop aims to review the existing curriculum and incorporate these new theoretical and practical dimensions in line with international practices.