The University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Professor Mamun Ahmed has emphasised that the objective of engineering students should extend beyond achieving technical expertise and merit to becoming honest, ethical, and responsible human resources.
He said that a combination of merit and skill with honesty, patriotism, and human values would yield the greatest benefits for individuals, society, and the state.
The UGC chairman made these remarks as the chief guest during the commencement ceremony of 2025-26 academic session at Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) in the capital on Sunday.
Mamun further observed that for progressing in a technology-driven economy and maintain a competitive edge globally, the country requires professionals who possess both technical proficiency and ethical leadership.
He underscored the vital role engineers must play in building a society that is corruption-free, accountable, and conducive to innovation.
As students will eventually hold significant responsibilities across various sectors after graduation, the UGC chairman noted they must be enriched with social skills and leadership qualities alongside academic excellence.
Addressing the current state of the education sector, Mamun pointed out that while the scope of higher education in the country has expanded, the quality of education has not improved proportionately.
He revealed that there are currently around 50 lakh (5 million) students studying across approximately 180 universities in Bangladesh.
To address this disparity, the UGC is implementing various initiatives to ensure quality education and make students fit for the job market.
These measures include a focus on skill-based education, the expansion of research opportunities, and the development of high-standard educational institutions.
Highlighting the reputation of MIST as an institution under military supervision, the chairman praised its focus on discipline and professional excellence.
He urged MIST authorities to ensure a learning environment that balances discipline with creativity and social engagement to produce well-rounded, responsible citizens.
Speaking at the event, MIST Commandant Major General Md Hakimuzzaman said the institution currently follows an Outcome Based Education (OBE) curriculum across all engineering departments to ensure students are globally competitive.
He shared plans to enhance the quality of education and research by establishing modern laboratories, expanding international collaborations, and increasing residential facilities for both students and teachers.
The ceremony was also addressed by Colonel Md Shahab Uddin and Colonel Mohammad Mozammel Haque. Deans of various faculties, heads of departments, teachers, officials, newly enrolled students, and their parents were in attendance.
