Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Sept 12, 2026 (BSS) - University Grants Commission (UGC) member Prof Dr Abdullah Al-Mamun today said the government is putting greater emphasis on international cooperation to improve the quality of higher education in Bangladesh.

“Initiatives are being taken to introduce joint and dual-degree programmes with foreign universities, while the government is also considering allowing international educational institutions to operate in Bangladesh,” he said while addressing the ‘OxfordAQA Leadership Conference’ at Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel here.

State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj attended the conference as the chief guest.

British Council Country Director Stephen Forbes, British High Commission Trade and Investment Director Sakib Ershad and OxfordAQA Head of Qualifications Jennifer Dugan were present as special guests.

Stressing the need for greater academic collaboration between Bangladeshi and foreign universities, Prof Mamun said joint and dual-degree programmes could help reduce brain drain and create opportunities for Bangladeshi talents living abroad to return home.

He said partnerships with reputed universities in the UK, the US and other countries are being strengthened to establish Bangladesh as a regional hub for higher education.

The UGC member also highlighted initiatives to attract students from neighbouring countries to pursue higher education in Bangladesh.

He said existing laws and regulations are being reviewed to facilitate the operation of branch campuses and study centres of foreign universities in Bangladesh.

“The British Council and the US Embassy are working with Bangladesh as international partners in this regard,” he said.

Prof Mamun stressed that preparation for higher education should begin at the secondary level.
“Good examination results alone are not enough. Students need to develop critical thinking, independent learning, research and problem-solving skills,” he said.

He also called for stronger coordination among schools, education boards, universities and employers to better align education with labour-market demands.