VC post not fully academic yet

In an exclusive interview with Farrukh Khosru of The New Nation, he outlines his assessment of Bangladesh’s education system before and after August 05 revolution, expectations from the new government following the 12 February election, and the urgent need for research investment, teacher training and institutional autonomy.

The Vice-Chancellor also highlights the 180-day action plan of the Ministry of Education, ongoing university reforms and future development priorities aimed at building a modern, research-oriented higher education system.

NN: How would you evaluate the education system in the pre- and post-August periods?

The pre-August education system maintained continuity but faced structural weaknesses, including limited research capacity, administrative complexities and politicisation.

In the post-August period, reform initiatives such as the formation of an education commission and the promotion of competent researchers to leadership roles are encouraging, although outcomes are not yet fully visible.

NN: Do you expect changes following the 12 February election?
There is an expectation of policy stability, increased research investment and stronger university autonomy.

Digitalisation and curriculum reform will likely be priorities, and the current Education Minister is seen as a promising leader capable of bringing positive changes.

NN: How political is the Vice-Chancellor position?
The VC role should primarily focus on academic leadership and administration. However, coordination with stakeholders is necessary.

In Bangladesh, the position can be considered quasi-political to some extent, though academic vision must take precedence.

NN: What positive action do you expect from the new government?
The Ministry of Education has finalised a 180-day action plan with 36 priority tasks and a budget of Tk 4,136 crore.

Increased research funding, international collaboration, industry-academia linkages, teacher training for 50,000 educators, 20,000 multimedia classrooms and free Wi-Fi in 1,500 institutions indicate a positive direction.

NN: How do you assess the government’s first month in office?
Initial steps are encouraging, particularly in planning and policy discussions, but implementation must be accelerated.

NN: Which areas require the most attention?
Research and innovation, teacher training, modern curriculum and technology-driven education should be prioritised.

Around 5% of GDP should be allocated to education, alongside competitive salaries for university teachers to prevent brain drain.

NN: What should be the education allocation in the upcoming budget?
At least 4–5% of the national budget should go to education, with significant funding for higher education. Science and technology universities should have central laboratories with proper maintenance support.

NN: What initiatives have you undertaken as Vice-Chancellor?
Over the past one and a half years, administrative transparency has improved, the academic calendar has been regularised and research promoted.

Library facilities in residential halls have been upgraded, promotion backlogs cleared, a clean campus initiative introduced, a mosque for female students is under construction and three laboratories have been established.

NN: How have you ensured a conducive educational environment?
Campus security has been strengthened, regular classes and exams ensured, and session delays reduced, with departments completing up to three semesters. However, shortages of teachers and laboratories remain a challenge.

NN: Have you faced political influence?
University operations have remained neutral and policy-driven, with no significant political interference during either the interim or current period.

NN: What is your view on allegations of corruption against Vice-Chancellors?
While isolated incidents may occur, generalisation is unfair.

Greater accountability and transparency can address such concerns, and most Vice-Chancellors perform their duties with integrity.

NN: What are your future plans for the university?
Future priorities include strengthening research capacity, improving international rankings, developing a smart campus and expanding industry linkages, while addressing staff shortages with support from the University Grants Commission.