University Grants Commission Chairman Professor Mamun Ahmed on Saturday called on the country’s universities to build closer links with society and respond more directly to local and national needs.
He said higher education should go beyond awarding degrees and contribute to solving real-world problems through research, innovation and the practical application of knowledge.
Mamun made the remarks as a special guest at a civic gathering and reception for new students marking the launch of academic activities at Naogaon University. The event was held at the Naogaon Sadar Upazila Parishad auditorium.
The UGC chairman said new universities should ensure socially responsive, research-based and skills-oriented education from the outset.
Academic programmes should be designed in a way that enables students to apply their knowledge in real life and make meaningful contributions to workplaces and society, he added.
Mamun said the commission was working to transform higher education from a teaching-focused system into a research-centred one and help build a knowledge-based economy.
He described the launch of Naogaon University as an important milestone for higher education in the northern region.
Earlier, Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon inaugurated the university’s academic activities by unveiling a plaque at its temporary campus.
State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam, Education Secretary Abdul Khaleque, UGC member Professor Abdullah-Al-Mamun and Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammad Hasanat Ali were among those present.
Local representatives and senior government officials also attended the programme.
