Member of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh Professor Abdullah-AL-Mamun at a discussion in Pabna has said that initiatives will be taken to build effective cooperation between universities and the industry.

He made the remarks while speaking as chief guest at the discussion titled Education-Industry Harmony, Employment Solutions at the Pabna University of Science and Technology on Wednesday, said a press release.

Presided over by PUST vice-chancellor Professor Abul Hasnat Md Shamim, Islamic University, Kushtia, VC Professor AKM Motinur Rahman was present as special guest at the event.

Mentioning that the government is giving importance to innovation, research and the creation of skilled human resources, the UGC member said that initiatives would be taken to increase apprenticeships, internships and industry-academia cooperation to make the country’s higher education system

more practical and work-oriented.

‘This programme will be started by establishing ties with local industries and businesses with universities located in divisional cities. This will give students the opportunity to get hands-on education and make it easier to enter the workforce,’ he mentioned, urging students to be interested in acquiring skills and exploring new knowledge.

The UGC member also emphasised the need to eliminate social and geographical disparities in the education sector, noting, ‘Education is not the exclusive right of any wealthy class. Quality education must be ensured for everyone, regardless of the rich or poor.’

The UGC will work to provide educational opportunities at the doorsteps of people in backward regions and create a suitable environment for the development of latent talents, he mentioned.

Professor Abul Hasnat Md Shamim emphasised on reducing the gap between education and industry and increasing cooperation.

He said that the unemployment problem could be solved through practical education and developing skilled manpower.