Shortage of research fund at varsities

There is no alternative to research for ensuring the overall development of a country. Due to limited allocation in the research sector at universities in Bangladesh, it has become difficult to conduct quality research. In public universities and research-oriented institutions, the lack of modern laboratories, adequate equipment and computers is discouraging students from engaging in research activities. Many talented students are falling behind in research simply because of financial constraints.

Although some institutions in the capital city of Dhaka receive comparatively better funding, institutions in other parts of the country are largely deprived. This has created frustration among students, particularly in the northern and southern regions of Bangladesh. While some sectors receive more than necessary allocations, education and research sectors receive little to no funding. This has a negative impact on the country's overall development.

In many cases, students and teachers are forced to conduct research using their own funds. The lack of adequate allocation in the research sector is gradually opening the door to brain drain. Talented students are leaving the country in search of better research opportunities and financial support abroad, resulting in a steady depletion of the nation's intellectual capital.

Since independence, Bangladesh's allocation for research has remained negligible. In contrast, developed countries invest a significant portion of their national budgets in research. It is high time to end this budgetary vacuum in the research sector and increase appropriate investment. Establishing separate research funds in every university and formulating research-supportive policies are now demand of the time.

Lotus Jahangir

Student, Department of History, University of Rajshahi