Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, has urged universities to evolve beyond degree-awarding institutions and become centers for developing skilled human resources.

He emphasized that every university graduate should possess essential soft skills, including digital literacy, communication abilities, and critical thinking. To achieve this, the government and the UGC are working jointly, with a nationwide soft skills development program set to be launched soon.

Dr. Ahmed made these remarks while addressing the central orientation program for first-year undergraduate (Honours) students of the 2025–26 academic session at the Birshreshtha Hamidur Rahman Auditorium of Islamic University on Saturday (August 1), where he attended as a special guest.

He said the goal is to ensure that universities produce graduates equipped not only with academic qualifications but also with the practical skills required to succeed in the modern workforce. To this end, Bangladesh’s higher education system is being made more technology-driven and responsive to contemporary needs.

Digital Transformation of Universities
The UGC Chairman announced that all universities in the country will gradually be brought under a comprehensive digital transformation initiative. The plan includes ensuring uninterrupted Wi-Fi connectivity across campuses, establishing digital classrooms, and eventually developing fully digital campuses.

According to him, these initiatives will provide students with equal access to global knowledge, research, and educational resources, regardless of their location.

Highlighting the distinctive identity of Islamic University, Dr. Ahmed said the institution’s integration of modern education, technology, and Islamic values has earned it a unique position in Bangladesh’s higher education landscape.

Addressing the new students, he stressed that talent alone is insufficient without consistent hard work and continuous learning. He also encouraged them to become responsible citizens committed to their families, society, and the nation.

Mandatory Internship Plan
To strengthen the link between higher education and employment, Dr. Ahmed revealed plans to introduce mandatory internships for university students.

He said internship opportunities will be created in government institutions, private organizations, and industries, with efforts underway to provide financial support for participating students.

“Students should gain practical workplace experience before graduating,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor Seeks Infrastructure Support
In his presidential address, Professor Dr. A.K.M. Motinur Rahman, Vice-Chancellor of Islamic University, requested UGC support for constructing a boundary wall to improve campus security.

He also sought assistance for building a permanent stadium, renovating the university’s access road, and addressing the shortage of faculty members through additional recruitment.

The event was attended virtually by Education Minister Dr. A.N.M. Ehsanul Haque Milon as the chief guest, while Education and Primary Education Adviser Mahdi Amin participated as a special guest.

The keynote orientation speech was delivered by Professor Dr. S.M. Abdul Awal, Chief SDG Coordinator at the Prime Minister’s Office.

Among others present were Professor Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, UGC Member; Professor Dr. Tofazzel Hossain, Vice-Chancellor of Meherpur University; Professor Dr. Md. Emtaz Hossain, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Islamic University; Professor Dr. Md. Idris Ali, Treasurer; Professor Dr. Manjurul Haque, Registrar; Professor Dr. Mizanur Rahman, Convener of the Orientation Committee; Professor Dr. Alinur Rahman; and Mahbub Alam Shah, Executive Director of the Malaysia-Bangladesh Development and Trade Relations Association.

Focus on Skills-Based Education
Speaking at the event, UGC Member Professor Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun said the government is committed to building a skills-based and employment-oriented education system.

He noted that the new education framework will be aligned with the demands of the global labor market while placing equal emphasis on entrepreneurship alongside traditional employment.

Planned initiatives include mandatory third-language education, summer schools, faculty exchange programs, internships, career development centers, and stronger collaboration between universities and industries.

He also highlighted several government initiatives aimed at supporting young people, including a Tk 5 billion startup fund, Tk 8 billion allocation for creative industries, loan assistance for overseas skilled workers, and ICT training for 50,000 students.

Professor Abdullah-Al-Mamun said that comprehensive reforms in education, skills development, and social inclusion would empower Bangladesh’s youth to become the country’s primary drivers of future development.