Staff Reporter :
As concerns grow over the declining standard of tertiary education due to a shortage of qualified professors, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced plans to address this issue through the creation of a ‘resource pool’ composed of university professors.
This initiative aims to bolster the education system, particularly at newly established and regional universities, by leveraging blended learning techniques.
Speaking as the Chief Guest at a workshop on ‘Comprehensive Plan for Blended Education’ held at the UGC auditorium, Chairman (Addl. Charge) and Member, Professor Dr. Muhammed Alamgir, underscored the urgent need for competent educators.
“The lack of skilled professors poses a significant challenge to ensuring quality higher education,” Alamgir lamented.
Professor Alamgir proposed the formation of resource pools consisting of subject-specific, experienced professors as a solution to bridge the learning gap. He urged all universities to adopt blended learning methodologies, citing their potential to revolutionise education delivery. However, he acknowledged the uneven implementation of higher education policies and stressed the need for rigorous stakeholder involvement to overcome these challenges.
Addressing the gathering, UGC member and committee member secretary, Professor Dr. Hasina Khan, echoed Professor Alamgir’s sentiments, emphasising the need to finalise comprehensive plans for blended learning within the next year. She highlighted her discussions with stakeholders and outlined the transformative potential of blended learning in fostering interactive and adaptive learning environments.
Professor Khan emphasised the crucial role of teacher training and the development of robust IT infrastructure to support blended learning initiatives. She envisioned a participatory educational experience that enhances students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, equipping them for future professional challenges.
Dr. Muhamin As Sakib from Dhaka University’s Institute of Information Technology and Mohammed Tourit, CEO of Bangladesh Research and Education Network (BdREN), discussed the “Blended Learning Roadmap: Cost Modelling and Estimation” initiative.
UGC has finalised policies on blended learning, integrating physical and online education for higher education in Bangladesh.
The aim is to ensure that Bangladesh does not lag behind in higher education by emphasising effective classroom participation, ensuring student engagement in the teaching process, and ensuring a transformative impact on the learning process through these policies.
With the moderation of Additional Director Vishnu Mallik, 31 public and private university vice chancellors, IQAC and ICT directors, or appointed representatives from Dhaka and surrounding regions took part in the daylong workshop.