Enriching human education by creating skilled human resources

Professor Dr. M. Shah-e-Alam has had an illustrious career, serving as the Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University and City University, as well as a professor at Bangladesh Agricultural University. He holds post-doctoral degrees in biotechnology from the University of Swansea, UK, and in agronomy from the Institute of Agronomy, Romania. He completed his PhD in plant breeding at Bangladesh Agricultural University. On 2 April 2023, he assumed role of Vice-Chancellor at Shanto Mariam University of Creative Technology. During a conversation with The Daily Messenger’s Anjan Chandra Deb, he shared his insights on education system and contemporary issues

The Daily Messenger : It is said that Shanto Mariam University is the country's first design-specialised cultural and creative university. Could you share your feelings about being appointed as its vice-chancellor?

Dr. M. Shah-e-Alam : Although it is referred to as the country's first design-specialized cultural and creative university, the question remains relevant. I would like to emphasize that, despite the focus on design or cultural education, we established this university in 2003 to provide practical and readily available education in the field of applied sciences. Moving beyond conventional education, our university aims to produce skilled professionals in the RMG sector, departing from the norm of relying on foreign manpower. Founded by the eminent educationist and freedom fighter M. Imamul Kabir and his associates, this university has been established to impart higher education in this field. While we have initiated teaching various subjects related to the garment industry, our core focus remains on design, multimedia, fashion design, interior architecture, music, dance, and similar disciplines.

Even though some institutions have started teaching various subjects related to the garment sector, we want others to also contribute to the practical implementation of education. Being appointed as the Vice-Chancellor for the third time after serving in government and non-government universities twice is an immense pleasure for me. Along with the joy, there are many challenges. Through the implementation of new plans and initiatives, we will gradually move forward with the development of our university.

The Daily Messenger : What role does Shanto Mariam University play in research and innovation?
M. Shah-e-Alam : The university plays a crucial role in creating new knowledge in various fields and utilizing it for human development. For this, it requires innovative and creative researchers and industrious students. In research, we face challenges that we address by engaging competent teachers or researchers in the relevant field, providing necessary tools for vocational education, establishing contemporary research centers, and creating a conducive research environment. Students with an interest in specific chapters or subjects can participate in postgraduate and PhD research. The success of research or PhD programs greatly influences the university's ranking or recognition. Shanto Mariam University collaborates with various research institutions and industries to contribute to the development of a skilled workforce and the nation.

The Daily Messenger : In the present time, students are mostly technology-dependent. Every day, new technologies are emerging. How beneficial do you think this technology dependence is for students?

M. Shah-e-Alam : Technology dependence among students is entirely natural. It allows them to learn and stay ahead in the new digital world. Through technology, they will acquire knowledge and build careers according to the demands of the technological era. Technological advancements have transformed the world into an information technology village. To stay ahead, they must align themselves with this new digital world through knowledge acquisition. Otherwise, dependence on technology will create a gap in their life and career.

The Daily Messenger : Many students in our country are opting to study abroad for higher education. Do you think the quality of our education is somewhat lagging? Your thoughts?

M. Shah-e-Alam : The overall quality of our education is not lagging compared to many third-world countries, and there is no doubt about it. In many third-world countries, the situation is worse and will continue to be so. However, to make progress and create suitable job opportunities based on qualifications, quality education is necessary. If we can work on ensuring quality education based on competency and creating suitable job sectors within the country, the trend of going abroad for education can be reduced. Private universities, due to their continuous improvement, have somewhat diminished the trend of studying abroad. We want to gift our students a modern education system. I believe that if this trend remains unchanged, there will be further progress in the situation.

The Daily Messenger : What is the plan for Shanto Mariam University in 2024?

M. Shah-e-Alam : We plan to enrich human education by creating skilled human resources in their respective fields. Secondly, to make an aspiring student aware of their interests, assist them in deciding on relevant subjects, and support them in achieving their ultimate goals through quality education. Generally, we prepare students to become entrepreneurs. Our success has positioned us in various renowned national and international institutions. An important aspect of our 2024 strategic plan is to focus on international standards, curriculum development in faculties, and being research-oriented.

The Daily Messenger : Where do you want to see Shanto Mariam University in five years?

M. Shah-e-Alam : In the next five years, we want to establish Shanto Mariam University as a leader in research by creating a robust research culture. Initially, we aim to emphasize research. Once the construction of the new buildings, planned alongside our highly modern campus, is completed, we will further enhance these activities. We want to boost practical knowledge development and innovation and strengthen academia-industry linkages for the students. We plan to increase collaboration with the advanced world to provide modern education at Shanto Mariam University in the field of Creative Technology.