Photo: BSS

RANGPUR, July 29, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC) is working to reduce the existing gap in quality and capacity between public and private universities in the country by improving the quality of education.
 
 
UGC member Professor Dr Abdullah-Al-Mamun said this while speaking as the chief guest at the orientation programme for new students of Teesta University for the July-December 2026 semester at the city’s Shilpokola Academy auditorium on Tuesday afternoon.

He said currently there is a visible difference between public and private universities in the country's higher education system in terms of research capacity, teacher development, lab and technological infrastructure, international cooperation, quality assurance of education and employment-oriented curricula.
 

“The UGC is implementing reforms and policy initiatives to reduce the gap so that students do not have to rely on institutions, but rather on equal opportunities for higher education and to accelerate the overall human resource progress of the country,” he said.
 

To this end, the draft of the strategic action plan for higher education transformation prepared by the UGC has taken necessary initiatives to bring universities under an integrated digital network.
 

“The initiatives will strengthen industry-academia linkages, formulate up-to-date and quality curricula, strengthen internal and external quality assurance systems, increase investment in research and establish good governance,” he said.
 

Importance has also been given to developing students' skills, enabling them to innovate and compete internationally.
 

Prof Dr Abdullah-Al-Mamun said that a new chapter begins for a student by getting admitted to the university. This time is the most important foundation for shaping their future career and personality.
 

“Therefore, from the very beginning, attention should be paid to proper use of time, regular study and self-development,” he said.
 

In order to meet the challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), he emphasized on acquiring research, IT skills, problem-solving skills, creative thinking, moral values and leadership qualities in addition to textbooks.
 

He said that universities are not just institutions that award certificates; it is a center for creating skilled, humane, innovative and responsible citizens.
 

Therefore, in addition to classroom lessons, active participation of students in research, co-curricular activities, social initiatives, volunteer activities and innovative projects must be ensured. All these activities prepare a student to face the challenges of real life.
 

Teesta University has been established with the aim of expanding the opportunities for quality higher education and research for local students and developing skilled human resources for regional development.
 

The goal has been set to make the university an international standard institution through modern infrastructure, recruitment of skilled teachers, research-friendly environment and technology-based education system.
 

"Teesta University is currently moving in the right direction by following the UGC's guidelines and there is no compromise being made to maintain the quality of the university's education, research and academic activities," he said.
 

With Teesta University Vice-chancellor Professor Dr M Abul Kashem in the chair, Begum Rokeya University Vice-chancellor Professor Dr Md Shawkat Ali attended the function as as a special guest.
 

The event was also attended by the Chairman of the University Board of Trustees Md Ashraful Alam Al-Amin, teachers, officials and employees of various departments, students and guardians.