The sorry state of Bangladesh's higher education becomes evident each year through different global university rankings. Despite millions of students graduating annually, only around half of them manage to secure employment, leading to a growing number of educated unemployed individuals. The question necessarily arises why are our graduates struggling in the job market? The answer lies in the need for globally competitive higher education, which is crucial for national development.
One significant issue is the lack of skilled local workers, forcing organisations to hire foreign professionals at high costs. This situation persists despite widespread unemployment, highlighting gaps in our education system. To compete globally, we must focus on technology, innovation, and research, areas where Bangladeshi students often lag.
Improving higher education requires targeted measures. First, research funding must be increased, fostering innovation and strengthening university-industry collaboration. Encouraging high-impact research among students and teachers will elevate educational quality and contribute to national progress.
Second, the quality of teaching must improve. Teachers should undergo regular training, adopt modern pedagogy, and connect with international best practices. Mdernised curricula, aligned with global standards, is essential, alongside the establishment of cutting-edge research centres.
Infrastructure also plays a vital role. Universities need well-equipped libraries and laboratories to create an environment conducive to learning. Investments in modern facilities will attract foreign students and enhance Bangladesh's global reputation.
The importance of collaboration with international universities and organisations cannot be overstated in this age of globalisation. Joint research projects and seminars by global experts will help students and teachers to gain a broader perspective. Furthermore, universities must build strong ties with industries to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
A shift from rote learning to inquiry-based and interactive methods is essential. The current reliance on memorisation stifles creativity and problem-solving abilities. Higher education must foster critical thinking and innovation to prepare students for real-world challenges.
Finally, equitable access to education must be ensured. Institutions like the Seven Colleges and National University, often overlooked, should receive equal attention and resources. A strong accreditation body should be established to monitor educational quality, pushing universities to meet international standards.
With government support and policy reforms, Bangladesh can transform its higher education system to meet global benchmarks. Increased funding, scholarships, and a focus on best practices will enable the country to thrive in the global competition, contributing to both national and international development.
Sakibul Hasan
Department of Sociology
Dhaka College, Dhaka
[email protected]
