Allocate more funds for research

Speakers at a programme yesterday stressed on increasing allocation in the research sector to increase the number of quality publications at university level.

At the inauguration programme of a two-day "Research and Publication Fair" organised by Dhaka University at the university central field, the first of its kind in the institution's history, they also highlighted the importance of a  special research fund under the alumni of the campus.

They also called for increased industry-academia collaboration, designing job and community based curriculum  and enrollment of more foreign students.

Addressing the event as chief guest, Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun said by utilising the research done by Bangladesh Agricultural University, the country is now self-sufficient in the food sector.

"This is the impact of quality research," he said. He also stressed the importance of sector-wise research.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Education Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, speaking as special guest, said the research wing of the universities should get the maximum allocations and attention.

By utilising the research done by Bangladesh Agricultural University, the country is now self-sufficient in the food sector. This is the impact of quality research.

— Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun Industries Minister

He however added that such allocations shouldn't only come from the government.

He said DU has many alumni who have become successful in their respective fields. They should form a research fund for the university, he said.

The junior minister also appreciated organising  such research fairs marking the centennial celebration of DU.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Md Akhtaruzzaman said, "Components like industry-academia relationship, community engagement, alliance and collaboration, are seriously missing in education and cultural policy in our country. Identifying the issue, we are putting stress on Private Public Partnership and Academia-Industry collaboration."

"Admission of foreign students is very important for doing well in international rankings. But foreign students lose interest due to the long and complex process of admissions in our country. We will request the education ministry to change the existing policy," he added.

DU pro-VC (education) ASM Maksud Kamal said, "University cannot progress without industry-academia collaboration. Without research, education will not usher in new knowledge... the university will not be able to work to enrich the nation and society."

At the inaugural day, various departments-institutes and research centres of DU showcased their innovations, researches and publications. As many as 55 books, 26 specialised journals, 216 research projects, 624 posters and 86 flyer-brochures were exhibited and presented in the fair.