University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed. File photo

DHAKA, July 9, 2026 (BSS) - University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed today assured that the academic freedom and autonomy of the country's universities will remain unaffected despite the government's decision to channel research funding through the UGC.
Speaking at an exchange of views with the Bangladesh University Council at the UGC auditorium, he said the commission would ensure transparent, efficient and timely utilisation of research funds for the 2026-27 fiscal year.

Bangladesh University Council President Prof Dr S M Abdur Razzak noted that allocating research funds under the UGC budget code instead of universities' own codes will create administrative complexities, stressing that university autonomy must be preserved alongside the government's research priorities.

In response, the UGC chairman said a coordination committee with university representatives would be formed and clear implementation guidelines prepared.

He said Tk 226 crore has been allocated for research in FY2026-27. 

Proposals for undergraduate, postgraduate, MPhil and PhD research will be invited early in the fiscal year, he added. 

Universities will conduct their own evaluations before forwarding proposals to the UGC, with funding decisions based on research quality and national priorities, he said.

He said funds will be released within two weeks of receiving proposals.

Mamun Ahmed said no university would receive less funding under the new system, while regional universities would have equal opportunities.