Photo: Messenger
A university serves as a crucible for the generation and dissemination of new knowledge, where students and educators alike are custodians of this evolving reservoir. Its core mission extends beyond mere instruction to encompass the propagation of freshly minted insights across the globe. Moreover, universities undertake the crucial task of assimilating, honing, and proliferating synthesised knowledge, gleaned through comparative dialogues with peer institutions worldwide, thereby fostering diverse perspectives. Hence, a university epitomises a veritable laboratory or research nexus.
Regrettably, only a handful of universities in Bangladesh exhibit these multifaceted attributes, underscoring the fundamental distinction between schools/colleges and universities. While schools and colleges primarily impart foundational knowledge, universities engage in centuries-old scholarly endeavours, perpetually enriching the academic discourse.
Dhaka University, established in 1921, stands as a beacon of higher education in Bangladesh, yet its roots delve deep into the annals of history. The educational legacy of this region traces back to ancient times, where the Buddhist monastic institutions, known as 'Bihar,' served as centers of learning. The Bengali educational tradition, one of the oldest in the world, flourished alongside advanced civilisations, predating the formation of many modern nations. Even before the emergence of the Bengali language, the educational landscape here embraced the teachings of both Arya and Non-Arya languages.
Despite periods of decline, the Bengali educational system persevered, maintaining its prominence even as empires rose and fell. However, the onslaught of Muslim and Turkish invasions, notably exemplified by Bakhtiyar Khilji's devastating campaign in 1204 AD, dealt a severe blow to the educational fabric of Bengal and India at large. The destruction wrought by these invasions marked a tragic chapter in the history of knowledge, eclipsing a time when Bengal stood at the forefront of scientific advancement, surpassing even the achievements of Greece and Rome. The obliteration of educational institutions mirrored the broader cultural upheaval, leaving an indelible mark on the region's intellectual heritage.
In Bengali literature, the period from 1201 to 1350 is often referred to as the Dark Age, a time marked by significant developments in the Bengali language despite its historical challenges. During the British colonial period in the mid-19th century, universities were established across India, including Calcutta, marking the second phase of university creation in the subcontinent. Prior to Bangladesh's independence, four general category universities were founded: Dhaka University (1921), Rajshahi University (1953), Chittagong University (1966), and Jahangirnagar University (1970). Following independence, the first university established in the country was Islami University in 1980. Additionally, two special category universities were established before independence: the present-day Bangladesh Agricultural University (1961) and Bangladesh Engineering University (1962).
Currently, Bangladesh boasts 58 public and autonomous universities. However, given the country's substantial population, this number falls short of meeting the demand for higher education. Consequently, the establishment of private universities has become necessary to bridge this gap and align with global educational standards, ensuring broader access to quality higher education in Bangladesh.
In the realm of education, particularly in higher education, private universities in Bangladesh have significantly transformed the landscape over the past three decades. The current government has undertaken extensive digitization initiatives within the higher education sector, leading to a paradigm shift in how education is accessed and delivered. Consequently, students from various countries are increasingly drawn to pursue higher education in Bangladesh, leveraging digital platforms to explore course curricula from any corner of the globe.
Presently, more than 26 countries are represented among students studying in various private universities across Bangladesh, with over 1,600 of them being international students.
Remarkably, this figure surpasses the enrollment of foreign students in government universities. Notably, students from developed nations such as the USA, Canada, China, and Japan are also choosing to pursue their studies in Bangladesh.
This trend not only enhances Bangladesh's global image but also contributes to the country's foreign currency earnings. It showcases Bangladesh as an emerging hub of quality education, fostering cultural exchange and academic collaboration on an international scale. Thus, the influx of foreign students into private universities not only elevates the nation's prestige but also augments its economic prospects through increased revenue from the education sector.
Once upon a time, higher education abroad was the privilege of the wealthy, as opportunities within the country were largely confined to government universities and affiliated colleges.
However, this scenario posed challenges due to limited seats and a narrow spectrum of institutes and subjects. Faced with a shortage of higher education options domestically, students often resorted to spending substantial sums to pursue studies abroad.
The situation began to change around 1988 with the establishment of 'Darul Ihsan' University (later closed in 2014), signaling a shift towards diversification in higher education.
Recognizing the need for reform, a policy decision was made in January 1991 to introduce private universities in Bangladesh, following consultations with prominent academicians and researchers at the government level. Subsequently, the Chulchera government enacted the Private University Act of 1992, laying the groundwork for the establishment of private universities.
Despite facing various challenges, private universities in Bangladesh have made significant strides in global rankings, primarily through their focus on research and publication. Notably, 14 universities in Bangladesh have earned rankings in the prestigious QS World University Rankings. Among them, eight are private universities, showcasing their commitment to academic excellence alongside six government universities.
Dhaka University secures the top spot in the rankings, followed by Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in second place. Remarkably, North South University claims the third position, while BRAC University holds the fourth spot. These rankings carry substantial weight internationally, underscoring the growing recognition of Bangladesh's higher education sector on the global stage.
Many people say that studying in private universities is very expensive. But according to the UGC annual report of 2021, the total expenditure for a student of Dhaka University is 1 lakh 85 thousand 124 taka. They do not pass in four years. It takes five to six years. If the sum of money is calculated, it exceeds the cost of attending a private university. The figure is even higher in agricultural universities. So why is it said that private universities are taking too much money? The fact is that in government universities all expenses are borne by the government. Therefore, financial pressure does not fall on the students.
Over the past three decades, private universities have made remarkable contributions to Bangladesh's economic development. However, during their establishment, certain constraints limited curriculum design and innovation. Despite these challenges, private universities have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, playing a crucial role in shaping the nation's future workforce and driving economic growth. It's imperative to address the challenges faced by private universities and provide necessary support to unleash their full potential in contributing to Bangladesh's socioeconomic development.
The proliferation of both public and private universities over the past few decades has significantly increased access to higher education in Bangladesh, leading to a growing number of educated individuals contributing to the economy. However, the presence of a substantial foreign workforce in the country, particularly from neighbouring India, suggests underlying issues within the domestic job market.
Moving forward, fostering collaboration between public and private universities, along with targeted investments in higher education, is essential for addressing unemployment challenges and harnessing the potential of educated individuals to drive Bangladesh's economic growth and development.
The writer is a Member of University Grants Commission (UGC)
Messenger/Disha
