Photo: Messenger
Universal College Bangladesh (UCBD) has successfully held its orientation programme for the second cohort of students enrolled in the UIFY (UCBD International Foundation Year) programme, The programme provides SSC, O Level, A Level, and HSC graduates with a direct bridge to higher education at renowned universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.
UIFY is a two-semester pre-university qualification designed to improve English language skills and study skills, while introducing students to the subjects needed to enter their chosen degree programme. The pathways currently offered lead to degrees in Business & Commerce, Computing & IT, Accounting, Finance, Engineering, Health, and Science. The UIFY programme provides access to over 70 universities globally, ensuring diverse academic opportunities for students.
The orientation began with opening remarks from Professor Hew Gill, President and Provost of UCBD; and Professor Muhammad Ismail Hossain, Dean of Academic Affairs, UCBD. Both speakers emphasised how the programme is carefully designed to prepare students from national and international, English and Bangla medium curriculums for rigorous undergraduate studies in any academic environment.
Professor Hew Gill said, “The UIFY programme is designed for students from a wide range of educational backgrounds, and equips them with the skills, knowledge, and global perspectives necessary to thrive in their undergraduate studies. We are delighted to welcome this talented group of students to the second batch of the UIFY programme, and we look forward to providing them with access to world-class education and professional development opportunities.”
Pikasha Imam, the UIFY Programme Coordinator, delivered an overview of the programme. covering its policies and structure. The new students were also introduced to key tools such as UCB’s state-of-the-art Learning Management System (LMS), which supports course access, academic policy navigation, and efficient management of educational resources. Professor Hew Gill and Samia Salam, Parent Engagement Executive, led a separate session for parents, addressing their queries and outlining the program’s benefits and progression routes.
UIFY is offered through a partnership with UK-based NCC Education. UIFY is open to any student with SSC 3.0 or above, and IELTS with a minimum score 4.5 or equivalent. The programme structure includes core units to teach academic English, mathematics, and research skills for university entry, with specialist elective units based on students’ destination degree choice, such as International Business, Accounting, Introduction to Programming, Chemistry, Further Mathematics, and Physics.
For further details about the UIFY programme. including entry requirements and university partnerships, visit: https://ucbbd.org/admission/ucb-international-foundation-year/.
Messenger/Tushar
