SEU’s approach to skill development, career growth: Dr M Mofazzal Hossain
Sarfuzzaman Khan:
Southeast University (SEU) has adopted a comprehensive approach to skill development and career growth, ensuring that students are well-equipped with the practical expertise and industry exposure needed for professional success.
Major difference between higher education in Bangladesh and abroad?
In Bangladesh, students tend to prioritise university degrees in higher education, whereas in developed countries, technical and vocational training (TVT) holds greater importance. As a result, despite obtaining higher education degrees, many highly educated individuals in our country remain unemployed.
Getting admitted to a university abroad for higher education is quite difficult, whereas in Bangladesh, public universities are being established at the district level.
However, instead of district-based public universities, we should focus on establishing technical education institutions and nursing institutes for female students. This would enable the creation of a skilled workforce, which would be evaluated based on competency when seeking jobs abroad.
What steps can be taken to meet the country’s job market demand?
In reality, every university in Bangladesh produces a sufficient number of graduates, but they fail to acquire the necessary skills. As a result, we are compelled to hire foreign manpower to meet job market demands. At the same time, those who do acquire skills tend to move abroad for better opportunities. One of the main reasons behind this is the lack of industry interaction.
Universities do not have a clear understanding of the type of skilled manpower industries require. Consequently, universities are producing graduates who are unable to secure suitable jobs, leading to rising unemployment.
I strongly believe that every university should have a Centre for skill development, where graduates can enroll in specialised skill development courses for six months to a year. After completing their degrees, students should receive additional training through skill development programs aligned with job market demands. Understanding industry demand and enhancing skills accordingly would be a more effective and profitable solution for the country.
In what way SEU guides students to enhance their skills?
At SEU, we have the Institute of Research and Training (IRT), which supports students in research activities and provides necessary training. Some key initiatives include: research funding through faculty members, financial assistance for student publications, which plays a crucial role in academic and research development.
We focus on three core aspects through ECA: knowledge, skills, and attitude. SEU offers around 20 student clubs, including: IEEE Club, which provides technical exposure, Leadership Skill Development Programs, conducted through various student clubs.
What steps does SEU take for students’ career development after graduation?
Launching new Master’s degree programs to support job career development, Short-term training sessions for primary skill development, Job fairs to connect students with employers, Strengthening the Alumni Association, which actively supports students in career development, emphasising Industry Network Development and Attachment for better career prospects