Photo: UGC

DHAKA, April 1, 2026 (BSS) - The World Bank has assessed the overall implementation progress of the Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) project, being implemented by the University Grants Commission (UGC), as ‘moderately satisfactory.’

A World Bank delegation shared the latest progress of the project during a courtesy meeting with UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed today.

The three-member delegation was led by senior education specialist and task team leader T. M. Asaduzzaman. UGC Member Professor Dr. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan, HEAT Project Director Professor Dr. Asaduzzaman, and other officials of UGC and the project were present at the meeting.

Speaking at the meeting, T. M. Asaduzzaman described the HEAT project as a ‘frontline investment’ by the World Bank in Bangladesh’s higher education sector, which is expected to play a significant role in developing skilled human resources and creating employment opportunities in the future.

He added that the project’s mid-term review will begin in April and sought cooperation from all concerned to complete the activities within the stipulated timeframe.

UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed said that the HEAT project is one of the most important initiatives in the country’s higher education sector. Its successful implementation will help improve the quality of higher education and address existing structural challenges.

He noted that training programmes for young faculty members under the project have already started to bring positive changes and emphasized the need for continued World Bank support to institutionalize such initiatives.

He also instructed officials concerned to set clear targets and adopt effective plans to complete the work on time, stressing the importance of dedication, transparency, and accountability in project implementation. He further emphasized ensuring transparency in decision-making and visibly presenting project progress.