President Mohammad Abdul Hamid has called on the authorities of all universities to take firm and immediate action against corruption and nepotism, while simultaneously strengthening research and academic innovation across higher education institutions in Bangladesh. The Head of State made these remarks during a courtesy meeting with vice-chancellors from 19 public universities at Bangabhaban on Tuesday evening.
The delegation, representing universities that have jointly introduced a cluster-based admission test system, was led by Professor Farid Uddin Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST). During the meeting, the vice-chancellors briefed the President on recent academic activities, administrative challenges, and the progress of the cluster admission initiative.
Table of Contents
Call for Transparency and Academic Integrity
President Hamid stressed that universities must remain centres of merit, integrity, and intellectual freedom. He warned that corruption, nepotism, and administrative malpractice undermine academic standards and erode public trust in higher education. Emphasising ethical leadership, he urged vice-chancellors to ensure transparency in recruitment, promotions, procurement, and student admissions.
The President further highlighted the importance of strengthening research activities, noting that universities play a critical role in producing knowledge, innovation, and skilled human resources. He encouraged institutions to prioritise quality research aligned with national development goals, global scientific advancements, and societal needs.
Modern Curricula for a Competitive World
To prepare students for a rapidly changing global landscape, President Hamid called for the introduction of demand-driven and contemporary subjects, as well as the regular updating of curricula. He noted that higher education must evolve in response to technological progress, labour market demands, and international competition in order to empower the younger generation.
Praise for Cluster Admission System
The President expressed appreciation for the implementation of the cluster-based admission test system, describing it as a student-friendly reform. He said the unified system has significantly reduced the financial, physical, and mental stress previously faced by students and their parents, who had to sit for multiple entrance examinations across different universities.
Senior officials from the President’s Office were also present at the meeting.
Key Directives from the President
| Focus Area | Presidential Guidance |
|---|---|
| Governance | Zero tolerance for corruption and nepotism |
| Recruitment | Ensure transparency and merit-based appointments |
| Research | Strengthen research culture and output |
| Curriculum | Introduce demand-driven, updated academic programmes |
| Admissions | Continue and improve cluster-based admission system |
| Student Welfare | Reduce stress and ensure equal access to education |
President Hamid concluded by urging university leaders to act as guardians of academic values and national progress. He emphasised that strong, corruption-free universities are essential for building a knowledge-based, inclusive, and competitive Bangladesh.
The meeting reinforced the government’s broader commitment to reforming higher education through good governance, innovation, and student-centric policies.