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Recently, two professors from the University of Agder (UiA), Norway, Van Khang Huynh and Joao Leal, visited Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET) under a collaboration between these two universities named the "Care Project." They conducted several seminars for CUET students and participated in an international conference named "ICMRE-2023." Our CUET correspondent, Najmul Hasan, interviewed them about their observations on CUET before their departure.
TBT: What is your observation about CUET?
Joao: CUET is a large campus for engineering studies. The students are very enthusiastic, and the university authorities were very caring towards us. Besides, traditionally, girls are less interested in the Engineering sector. Still, there are a lot of female students in CUET, even more than in European universities.
TBT: What are your suggestions for CUET authority?
Van: I observed enthusiasm among the students, but their roaming space is not adequate. There must be equal participation from teachers and students everywhere in a university. CUET needs to encourage more student engagement. In Europe, we have a close relationship with our students.
TBT: Many Bangladeshi students have submitted research papers at "ICMRE-2023." How do you evaluate their work?
Joao: There were many interesting works, and students tried to produce good work. However, there was a lack of some special works. I hope Bangladeshi authorities will focus on more specialized research.
TBT: Do you have any suggestions for Bangladeshi students who want to study in Europe?
Van: I want to say to Bangladeshi students to focus on their studies. Get proper information about the country where you want to go, especially their food and weather. Moreover, strong communication skills in English are very necessary.
TBT: Is the teaching and research environment at CUET world-class?
Joao: The students are talented, and many CUET teachers have higher degrees from world-class countries. They have potential. I hope CUET will do well, but they have to work much.
TBT: What are the main barriers for Bangladeshi Universities?
Van: Politics should be kept outside universities. In Norway, there is no politics in universities. Students and teachers are solely dedicated to research and study. I think Bangladesh can follow this concept.
TBT: Throughout your visit, what did you like most about Bangladesh?
Joao: Bangladeshi people are very generous. I liked their food very much. CUET authorities took special care of us, especially Professor Sayem (Dr. Abu Shadat Muhammad Sayem, professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at CUET).
TBT: Will you visit Bangladesh again?
Van: It's been a nice experience at CUET. If we receive a proper invitation, we may visit Bangladesh again.
TBT: Is Bangladesh a safe place for foreigners?
Joao: We had to maintain a very tight schedule, so we couldn't explore Bangladesh much. However, we didn't feel any unsafe security conditions here. Bangladesh is safer than South American countries.
Messenger/Najmul Hasan/Nargis
