Knowledge is found at universities. It is the birthplace of new concepts. But what happens when those who most need to produce knowledge are unable to do so? For many Bangladeshi undergraduate students, particularly those from middle-class backgrounds, this is the depressing reality. For many students, research – a vital component of academic development – has become an unattainable goal.
The cost of research is high. To collect data, costly supplies, equipment, and occasionally travel are needed. Chemicals and lab equipment are necessary for science students. Students studying social science must travel to various locations to gather data. Business students use expensive databases and software. These costs quickly mount up and out of reach for a middle-class student. Many students find it difficult to cover their daily expenses and tuition. To make ends meet, they take on tutoring or part-time jobs. Majority of middle-class students are required to pay for their education in full. Frequently, their families are unable to provide for them. They balance their jobs and studies while living in cramped quarters. How, then, can they finance costly research initiatives? The idea of conducting research without funding indeed seems unfeasible when you’re having financial difficulties. Many gifted students give up on their aspirations to conduct research as a result. In the hopes of securing their jobs, they instead concentrate on getting ready for government tests like BCS.
In Bangladesh, research receives very little funding from public universities with majority received by teachers and postgraduate students. Undergraduate students are not eligible for any special funding or for any scholarships or fellowships from the government or the University Grants Commission (UGC). Bangladesh is losing its best minds, which is a serious issue. The outcome is ‘brain drain,’ as our bright young people depart the nation in pursuit of better prospects. If given the chance, these students could find solutions to many of the problems facing the country.
We must act quickly to prevent this from occurring. Students who wish to conduct research need more assistance. We cannot expect our universities to be hubs of knowledge production without such assistance. Universities and UGC must establish research funds, especially for undergraduate students. These funds can assist in paying for research-related supplies, travel, and software. Companies can be crucial in helping students with their research. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds are available for many businesses in Bangladesh. Student research projects could be supported by these funds. Students would gain from this, and it would also help close the gap between academia and business. Rewards should be given to students who are successful in getting their research published in reputable national or international journals. In order to motivate students to strive for high-calibre publications, universities ought to provide honoraria that will motivate other students. Undergraduates should be mentored by professors who can offer invaluable mentorship by being involve in their research projects.
Universities foster a culture of learning and problem-solving when they fund research. Students are frequently the ones with original ideas, particularly undergraduates. By letting these students investigate concepts through research, some of the most pressing issues can be solved. We run the risk of losing these gifted people to other nations if we don’t help them.
We must invest not only in job seekers but also in our future leaders. Universities will produce future leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers in addition to better scholars if they concentrate on developing a research-oriented culture. Universities should be seen as more than just places to produce graduates who are prepared for the workforce. They ought to be viewed as breeding grounds for upcoming leaders and innovators.
The way we raise our students now will determine Bangladesh’s future. We must provide the resources and assistance required to carry out research if we hope to establish a knowledge-based economy. We must invest in our youth if we hope to create a country capable of competing on a global scale. Universities have a part to play in building this future. To guarantee that research is available to all students, regardless of their financial situation, the public and private sectors, as well as academic institutions, must work together.
We must fund undergraduate research if we are serious about developing a knowledge-driven economy and addressing the challenges of the future. The upcoming generation of intellectuals, artists, and innovators will determine Bangladesh’s future. Let’s not let financial obstacles prevent us from realising this potential. We must be the first to make the change.
The writer is a volunteer, UNICEF Bangladesh and independent researcher, University of Rajshahi. E-mail- [email protected]
