'Some provisions to hamper activities'

The Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh yesterday criticised some of the provisions of the proposed Private University Ordinance 2007, saying that they would create obstacles to the growth and activities of such institutions.
The government should have a regulatory policy for private universities instead of interfering directly, the association leaders said at a discussion at the National Press Club.
They also said the proposed ordinance would alter the basic structure of the private universities.
However, other provisions of the proposed ordinance would have positive impacts such as formation of Accreditation Council and encouraging research activities, they added.
Vice-President of the association Abul Quasem Haider said the immediate past government prepared the draft ordinance unilaterally. "Even the caretaker government has placed it to the cabinet without consulting with us," he added.
Speaking as the chief guest, UGC Chairman Prof Nazrul Islam said the private universities should assess their own performance and ensure quality higher education.
Association Chairman MA Kashem also spoke while Dr Rezwan Khan of United International University read out a written statement.