UGC Chairman Mamun Ahmed spoke at a meeting at the University Grants Commission headquarters about third-language learning programmes. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Aug 19, 2026 (BSS) - The University Grants Commission (UGC) plans to launch third-language learning programmes at 30 public and private 
universities across the country by January 2027 to enhance students' multilingual skills and improve their competitiveness in the international 
job market.

UGC Chairman Professor Dr Mamun Ahmed announced the initiative at a meeting today, an UGC press release said.

The programme aims to ensure representation across all eight divisions, based on regional manpower demand, public interest, university capacity and existing infrastructure.

Eight languages have been identified for the programme-- Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Spanish and Italian. Initially, priority may be given to Arabic, Japanese, Korean, Chinese and Italian. 

The final language-university mapping will depend on regional demand and institutional readiness.

UGC will assess existing language centres, currently available at 10 universities while considering the establishment of new centres.

Dhaka University currently offers courses in 13 languages.

The commission plans to train qualified language instructors, modernise facilities, establish language laboratories and introduce technology-based learning materials. 

It will also seek support from foreign language experts and institutions where necessary.

The UGC will develop a common policy covering course operation, trainer recruitment, quality assurance, infrastructure, technology and monitoring.

The centres will serve both university students and other interested learners at affordable costs while ensuring they do not become commercial institutions.