Universities in the country could not achieve the desired place in the world rankings this year due to lack of proper planning and decision-making in research and innovation, said Bangladesh University Grants Commission Chairman (additional charge) Prof Dr Muhammad Alamgir. He said this while inaugurating 22 research and innovation sub-projects of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) with the financial support of City Bank. Also read: UGC asks 4 private universities to stop enrollment for failing to fulfill conditions The day-long workshop was held at Syed Nazrul Islam Conference Hall in BAKB on Saturday morning. This situation of the universities of the world ranking country is largely a continuous result of the steps taken by them in the past years, said the UGC chairman. Also read: UGC asks universities to follow financial regulations properly He urged the university authorities to create a suitable environment for research and innovation, recruit qualified teachers, increase the number of regular students in PhD programmes, arrange prestigious scholarships, increase industry-academia cooperation, and focus on citation. The UGC chairman demanded priority to those who have obtained PhD degrees in the recruitment of teachers in the university and a separate pay scale for teachers. Without an attractive pay structure, talented and young students with PhD degrees are not getting interest in the teaching profession, he said. For this, he believed, a separate pay scale is needed for university teachers. Alamgir also discouraged young teachers from pursuing PhD degrees abroad. He said there is a huge scope for research on the socio-economic problems of the country. Therefore, it is not desirable to go abroad for research and stay there after the degree. Also read: UGC asks private universities to update syllabuses Bangladesh Agricultural University Research System (BAURES) Director Professor Dr Mahfuza Begum presided over the programme while Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh University (BAU) Prof Dr Emdadul Haque Chowdhury spoke as the chief patron.

Dr Rashid Askari, a former vice-chancellor and also a Professor of English department of Islamic University in Kushtia , has won the Vidyasagar Award 2023 for his contribution to education.  The Sanskrit College and University, Kolkata, India and Vidyasagar Society, Dhaka Bangladesh jointly handed over the award on Tuesday night, IU academic office officials said on Wednesday. 124 students get Russian govt's higher education scholarships for 2024-25 Earlier, an international conference on 'Vidyasagar and the episteme of Bengal' jointly organised by the Sanskrit College and University, Kolkata, India and Vidyasagar Society, Dhaka marking the 203rd birth anniversary of Pandit Ishwarchandra Vidyasagar held at BB1 Bharati Bhavan, Kolkata, India on Tuesday. Among others, Mr Goutam De, former Director, ICCR, Biswadeb Chakraborty, Coordinator, URI, India, Dr. Tania Chakravertty, Dean of Students’ Welfare, Diamond Harbour Women’s University, West Bengal India, and delegates from Bangladesh-- Dr. Chinmoy Howlader, Associate Professor of Sanskrit, National University, Bangladesh, Prof. Md. Zahir Uddin Arif, Professor of Marketing, Jagannath University, Bangladesh and Iqbal Sarder, office secretary, Vidyasagar Society, Dhaka were present in the conference. CU orders former and expelled students to leave dormitories Rashid Askari is a distinguished academic, educationist, freethinking bilingual author, fictionist, columnist, translator and media personality.

The Russian Government on Tuesday announced 124 scholarships for Bangladeshi students on Bachelor, Masters and PhD courses for the academic year 2024-2025.  Counsellor of the embassy of the Russian Federation Pavel Dvoychenkov announced this in the annual press conference to mark the day of International Journalists' solidarity at the Russian House in Dhaka. He said the Russian House in Dhaka is jointly organizing all kinds of programs with several local partners: universities and non-governmental organizations, which gives the opportunity to get acquainted with their activities and to build solid cooperation in different fields. "Amid our main Bengali counterpart bodies are educational institutions: especially Stamford University. Dhaka University, Daffodil International University, State University of Bangladesh and United International University, as well as the Bangladesh-Russia Friendship Society, the Soviet Alumni Association Bangladesh (by the way, Soviet and Russian universities prepared around 5000 Bengali specialists working all around the world, often achieving top positions in the public and private sectors), the Muktijuddho Academy Trust, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, and many others," he added.  The counsellor said that the application can be done online https://education-in-russia.com. The period is from 1 September 2023 till 31 October 2023. However, before applying all educational qualification certificates and mark sheets/transcripts in original and photocopy must be attested by the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs and passport must be valid for more than 18 months from September 2024. Read: With D grade Bangladesh Bank governor fares poorly in global ranking After completing the online application, along with the copy of the online application, attested copies of all educational certificates and transcript, passport copy, medical certificate (Hepatitis A.B.C, Tuberculosis and HIV absence report), consent letter of the candidate to personal info processing and one passport size color photograph should be submitted to the Education Section of Russian House in Dhaka.  Application submission time at Russian House in Dhaka is 10am to 5pm from Sunday to Thursday, he added. Apart from higher education in Russia, Bangladesh is also implementing the new Generation Program of short-term study tours to Russia for youth representatives at various Russian events. Every year, more than 1000 young leaders aged 25 to 35 visit Russia to establish professional contacts and build long-term partnership with Russian state and non-state structures, youth and community organizations. This year also,the Russian House in Dhaka has started activities for Bangladeshi representatives to participate in the New Generation Program, which is on its way to implementation very soon. Russian House in Dhaka invites young Bangladeshi friends to participate in the World Youth Festival-2024, which will be held in Sochi in the beginning of March next year. 20,000 Russian and foreign young leaders aged 18 to 35 - business, professionals from media, education, science, international cooperation, culture, volunteering, sports and other fields of social life - will gather at this festival.   The Russian House in Dhaka is working hard to promote educational and Russian language courses related to Russia. Discussions are already underway with some local universities to establish a "Russian Corner" so that anyone can easily learn about Russia and Russian language. This should be applied online only.

British Council IELTS test takers who do not achieve their desired results first time around will no longer have to re-sit the full test, after the launch of a game-changing new feature. One Skill Retake increases a test taker’s chances of success by offering them the opportunity to retake just one section of the IELTS test, whether it’s listening, reading, writing, or speaking, said the British Council on Tuesday. The format and timing of the test is the same as the section which examines the individual skill in a normal IELTS test, but test takers can save time cutting out the need to complete the other three skills. Andrew Mackenzie, Director of IELTS at the British Council, said One Skill Retake was created after listening to IELTS customer feedback. Read: Dhaka, Beijing committed to deepening strategic cooperation to uplift ties in new era: Ambassador Yao “We know that with the right preparation and support, our test takers can achieve their best score on test day. However, One Skill Retake provides test takers with an opportunity to retake a single skill if they feel their performance in the first instance did not represent their English proficiency, and we believe this increases fairness”, he said.  “Organisations that accept the IELTS One Skill Retake can offer their candidates the flexibility to achieve entry requirements without compromising on applicant quality. The IELTS partners are proud of this initiative that reinforces our commitment to helping test takers achieve their full potential,” he said.  Test takers who choose an IELTS One Skill Retake will receive a second Test Report Form that can be used for migration and study purposes. Depending on their score, test takers can choose whether they would like to use their old or new test report for the skill they retook. IELTS One Skill Retake can be booked within 60 days of the original IELTS test being taken. Tom Miscioscia, Director Bangladesh, British Council said: “We want to empower our IELTS test-takers in Bangladesh to achieve their best score, that’s why the British Council’s IELTS test is the only major high-stakes test with this new option.  “We are proud of this new initiative that reinforces our commitment to helping test takers achieve their full potential.”  

Chattogram University authorities have ordered those who are staying in the hall after the end of their academic session and those who are under expulsion for their involvement in anti-disciplinary activities at different times to leave the hall within 24 hours.  The directive was issued in a press release signed by CU acting registrar KM Nur Ahmed on Sunday evening. Meanwhile, police recovered eight sharp weapons and 17 pipes during a raid at Abdur Rab Hall of the university on Sunday afternoon following various clashes between different sub-groups of University unit Chhatra League in the past few days. Read: BCL men assault Prothom Alo CU correspondent for reporting on their activities University Proctor Dr Nurul Azim Sikder said, "Some iron rods, cricket stumps and local weapons were recovered from Abdur Rab Hall. The situation is calm now. Additional police have been deployed on the campus.” An emergency notification on Sunday said that the students who have already completed their study and are still staying in different residential halls of the university have been asked to leave the hall by 6 pm tomorrow. Read: BCL dissolves its CU unit committee Besides, those who have been expelled for their involvement in anti-disciplinary activities at different times have also been ordered to leave the hall within the same period. If such a person is found in the hall after a certain time, legal action will be taken against him.

Prothom Alo Chittagong University (CU) correspondent Mosharraf Shah suffered grievous injuries after being assaulted by activists of the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) early Sunday. Mosharraf said the attackers repeatedly asked him why he wrote news reports regarding BCL and threatened him not to write any more reports in the future. He identified the attackers as members of the 'CFC group', led by CU BCL vice president Mirza Khabir Sadaf. He was assaulted at around 11:30 a.m. on Sunday in front of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities on the CU campus. BCL dissolves its CU unit committee Mosharraf Shah told UNB that he was headed to the Vice-Chancellor's office to get a statement on the issue of Chhatra League clashes, vandalism, and the recent beating up of the chief engineer. Around 15-20 BCL activists cornered him when he reached in front of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. They asked him why he filed reports on BCL. Some of them kicked him in the chest, punched him in the face and forehead, and hit him on the hands. During the beating, Mosharraf said that leaders and activists threatened him not to publish news about the Chhatra League and said, “We will see who comes to save you if you write any more news.  There will be no news about Chhatra League.” Four members of a family rescued after landslides on Chittagong University campus The injured Mosharraf was given primary treatment at the University Medical Center. He was sent to Chittagong Medical College Hospital later. CU’s Medical Center's Chief Medical Officer, Abu Taiyab, said four stitches had to be given to close the wound on his forehead. Chittagong University proctor, 16 others resign from admin posts He is also suffering from a hand injury; an X-ray should be done, he said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) dissolved its Chittagong University (CU) unit committee on Sunday afternoon by issuing  a press release. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of BCL, it said.  

Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Bangladesh (ICMAB) Khulna Branch Council (KBC) organized a colorful orientation program for the newly admitted students of the July-December 2023 session on Wednesday at CMA Bhaban, Sonadanga, Khulna. Abdur Rahman Khan FCMA, President of ICMAB was present as the Chief Guest of the program, said a press release. He appreciated the decisions of the newly admitted students in choosing the CMA profession. He presented a clear picture of the country’s need for professional accountants. Read: BAT Bangladesh scoops up ‘ICMAB Best Corporate Award’ for sixth time He assured that the Institute will provide the necessary support to facilitate their CMA journey. Past President Prof. Mamtaz Uddin Ahmed, Treasurer Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Prof. S.M. Zahidur Rahman, Business Administration Discipline, Khulna University, Kartick Chandra Mondal, Principal, Azam Khan Govt. Commerce College and Professor Dr. Mohammad Zakaria Masud, Director of ICMAB, also addressed at the function. Read: Islami Bank scoops up ICMAB Best Corporate Award Khulna Branch Council Chairman Mr. Md. Arifur Rahman presided over the program and Vice Chairman Azizur Rahman delivered a welcome speech. A large number of students from several parts of Khulna attended the program. Read more: ICMAB signs MoU with Bogura Azizul Haque College to promote CMA studies

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday approved a $100 million loan to improve computer science, software engineering and information technology (IT) programmes in three universities in Bangladesh. ADB Social Sector Economist Ryotaro Hayashi said that uplifting software engineering programme in higher education is the needs of time to accelerate fourth industrial revolution technology adoption and realize the vision of Digital Bangladesh. Also read: ADB to provide Bangladesh $300 million loan to boost skills of labour force  “This project will help develop more competent and technology-savvy graduates and entrepreneurs who can help propel the country’s IT industry.” The project will upgrade the computer science and engineering, software engineering, and information technology degree programs of the leading public universities in Bangladesh which are Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, and the University of Dhaka, as well as Jashore University of Science and Technology, according to a release from the Bank. These programmes will adopt blended learning techniques and integrate the latest technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and internet of things. Also read: ADB provides $490 million to Bangladesh for 2 projects These programmes will seek international accreditation to ensure that students get updated curricula that adhere to international standards.  ADB will support the establishment of modern classrooms and laboratories, collaboration and start-up spaces, and auxiliary facilities in the three universities. These facilities will incorporate climate- and disaster-resilient designs, energy- and water-saving features, and will include women-friendly amenities and services. The universities will develop capacities of teachers to be proficient in new instructional approaches and emerging digital technologies. Also read: ADB mobilizes $261 million for Rampura Amulia Demra Expressway The students and teachers from the three and other universities will also work with industry partners to come up with innovative solutions through joint research and development. Mandatory internship opportunities, career counseling, and industry placement will be provided to undergraduate students, particularly for women.

The USAID-funded Strengthening Political Landscape Programme, implemented by Democracy International (DI), on Wednesday awarded certificates to 26 young political leaders from across Bangladesh at a Young Leaders Fellowship Program (YLFP) graduation ceremony organisedi in Dhaka. The graduating fellows are active leaders of Bangladesh Students League, Bangladesh Jatiyotabadi Chhatro Dol, and Jatiyo Chhatro Shomaj. The young politicians received comprehensive training for four months, covering a wide range of topics including politics, leadership, democratic practices, conflict mitigation, political party building and media relations. To date, 536 young leaders have successfully graduated from the program. The Young Leaders Fellowship Program aims to improve the political skills of young leaders, propel their careers within respective parties, and foster understanding between leaders of different political affiliations. The program creates a professional network that can help bridge the divide in the polarized political landscape of Bangladesh. The YLFP is widely acclaimed among young political leaders in Bangladesh, offering a rare opportunity to acquire knowledge and training in leadership and politics. Read: 48 scholars receive Prime Minister's Fellowship 2023-24 At the graduation ceremony, Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP’s Joint Secretary General Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal; Presidium Member of Jatiya Party Shamim Haider Patwari, MP; And Democracy International’s Chief of Party Dana L. Olds presented certificates to the fellows. Political Processes Advisor of USAID Bangladesh, Lubain Chowdhury Masum is also present at the ceremony. The graduating fellows shared their insights, learning, and recommendations from the Young Leaders Fellowship Program (YLFP). They discussed their multiparty advocacy successes working together on community issues at the event. Furthermore, they emphasized how they intend to continue working together after the fellowship program and future plans to engage other youth and combat the political apathy of the youth at the grassroots level. According to Meher Afroz Chumki, those who have been given the chance to participate in this fellowship are fortunate because training always improves a person's skill set. She believes that with this fellowship, DI has shown the young leaders the right path. She urged the young people to be prepared for the future. According to Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, Democracy International is attempting to bridge the gap created by the senior politicians with the newer ones. In reference to DI's achievement of developing this bridge, he claimed that future leadership would be at risk if young people get fed up with politics. Read: Save the Children launches digital equity fellowship for fresh female graduates Shamim Haider Patwari said that today's youth want politics to solve problems, they want to do politics of the future for the people of the future. The failure of senior politicians is that they have not been able to build bridges with the younger generation. Even though there will be many obstacles, he urged the youth to come and contribute to politics. In the closing speech, Chief of Party of Democracy International Dana L. Olds, Congratulating the graduates, she said, future parliamentarians, ministers and even a prime minister may be in this room today. It is because of your potential, USAID is investing in you. She said that the participants worked together to solve community issues, and added this is not the end of their collaboration, urging them to continue nurture the relationships built across parties and joint advocacy. Read more: Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship: US Embassy invites applications from Bangladeshi professionals The U. S. government, through USAID, has provided more than $8 billion in development assistance to Bangladesh since its independence.

A resident student of Dhaka University’s Ziaur Rahman Hall died after falling from the 6th floor of Jamuna block of Bijoy Ekattor Hall. Officer-in-charge of Dhaka Medical College Hospital police outpost Bacchu Mia confirmed the death. 2 schoolgirls ‘die by suicide’ in Magura The deceased Kazi Firoz was a student of Chinese language, of 2019-20 academic session. He stayed in room 203 of Ziaur Rahman Hall of Dhaka University. Suicide rate for young adults in US was worst in over 50 years during pandemic: Study According to Firoz’s roommate, Bin Yamin, “Firoz had been frustrated for a while. We always tried to cheer him up. Yesterday, he came to room around 10:30 pm, prayed, and asked if he owed us money.” “When he was leaving the room, he seemed quite depressed. I was determined to talk to him after his return. But after five minutes, I heard from nearby Bijoy Ekattor Hall that someone had committed suicide,” he added. “We immediately rushed there, and it was Firoz,” he said. Firoz was taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital but doctors there declared him dead. CU student commits suicide in dormitory A note was also recovered from his table. The note reads: “Human beings live for dignity. If there is no dignity, life is meaningless... Mother, I’m sorry that I couldn’t keep my words.” Firoz’s body is now at DMCH morgue. After post-mortem, the body will be sent to his hometown Gopalganj. DU Proctor Prof Maksudur Rahman said, “The incident is heart-breaking. Hall authorities will primarily look into the case.”