Setting up Jamuna University on the bank of Jamuna

There are 55 public universities, 115 private universities, and 3 international universities, totalling 173 universities currently operating in our country. The number of public universities is nearly half that of private universities. Education costs are comparatively lower at public universities, making them attractive to talented students from lower-income families. Consequently, competition for admission to public universities is much higher than at private universities. Given this context, expanding public universities across various regions is essential.

The western bank of the Jamuna River, adjacent to the Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge, is an ideal location for establishing a public university. This sprawling area could be acquired by the government to develop a fully residential public university. The riverbank area provides a strategic setting, particularly as a military cantonment is being developed on the eastern side of the Jamuna, ensuring security. Moreover, the area has excellent transportation links, with railroads, waterways, and highways readily accessible, making commuting convenient for students, faculty, and researchers.

To produce a skilled population, quality education is crucial. By offering high-calibre education across diverse institutions, Bangladesh could also attract international students. The interim government should take proactive steps to improve the national education system. Since there are few fully residential universities in Bangladesh, the government should prioritise the establishment of such institutions in this location.

If this plan proceeds, students located between Dhaka and Rajshahi would benefit directly, and a substantial number of employment opportunities would emerge, both directly and indirectly, thereby boosting economic activity in the region.

Md. Muradul Haque Sardar

Manager-Purchase (Local & Foreign)

Amanat Shah Group, Motijheel, Dhaka

[email protected]