Dhaka University (DU) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr ABM Obaidul Islam met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Secretariat on Thursday to discuss the university’s academic development and overall affairs.
According to a press release issued by the university’s Public Relations Office, Prof Dr Md Morshed Hasan Khan, Convener of the Dhaka University White Panel and a faculty member of the Marketing Department, was also present during the meeting.
During the audience, the VC apprised the prime minister of the overall security situation of the university, the progress of various development projects including mega development initiatives, the proposed 20-year Academic Development Plan, educational and research activities, and measures taken to strengthen industry-academia relations.
He also briefed the prime minister on DU’s joint education and research programmes with prestigious global universities, initiatives to enhance alumni networking, and recent measures implemented for student welfare.
Highlighting Dhaka University’s glorious contributions to democratic movements—including the Language Movement, the Liberation War, and the 2024 anti-discrimination student movement—the VC sought the prime minister’s co-operation in granting special status to the university.
Furthermore, he requested the prime minister’s assistance in increasing the university’s research funds, improving industry-academia relations, strengthening alumni networking, and developing education and research in artificial intelligence (AI), third languages, biology, biotechnology, and robotics.
The VC also sought assistance in creating internship opportunities for students in various industrial establishments. He further emphasised the need to strengthen co-curricular activities across residential halls, departments, and institutes to foster creativity, morality, tolerance, and human values among students, seeking the prime minister’s support in this regard.
In response, Tarique assured his overall co-operation in implementing mega development projects, granting special status to Dhaka University, and advancing the university’s education and research.
Tarique urged everyone to work unitedly to elevate Dhaka University to a prestigious position in international rankings. He also emphasised the importance of moving the university forward by leveraging the support and co-operation of its alumni.
During the meeting, the VC invited the prime minister to attend the potential convocation scheduled for next January, which he accepted, consenting to attend.
The VC expressed his gratitude to Tarique for his deep affection towards Dhaka University and his assurances of support for its education, research, and development activities.
