Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Sept 8, 2026 (BSS) - University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Mamun Ahmed today

said the commission is considering allowing qualified private universities with adequate

infrastructure, research quality and academic capacity to offer PhD degrees.

"However, all universities will not be given this opportunity indiscriminately. Approval will

depend on specific qualifications, research standards, transparency and academic integrity," he

said.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the 'Research Excellence Award 2026' ceremony at the

University of Asia Pacific (UAP) in the capital.

Prof Mamun said the UGC would ensure quality research and PhD programmes, with strict measures

against irregularities.

He stressed expanding PhD and post-doctoral research opportunities to address the shortage of

qualified teachers and researchers and improve higher education quality.

Regarding private university governance, he said boards of trustees and academic administration

must operate within their legal jurisdictions, with trustees barred from interfering in academic

administration.