Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon has directed the swift implementation of the ongoing Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) project to improve the quality of higher education.
He gave the instruction while speaking as the chief guest at the mid-term review workshop of the HEAT project held at the University Grants Commission (UGC) building on Thursday. UGC Chairman Professor Mamun Ahmed chaired the event.
Speaking as special guests at the opening session were Education Ministry Additional Secretary Sardar Md Keramat Ali and World Bank Senior Education Specialist and Task Team Leader TM Asaduzzaman.
HEAT Project Director Professor Asaduzzaman delivered the welcome speech at the event.
The education minister said, “This project is very important for the country. Every component of it is linked to improving the quality of higher education. Therefore, proper utilisation of the project funds must be ensured.”
On revising the project, he said, “In the current reality, some aspects of the project are no longer relevant. The Development Project Proposal must be revised by incorporating the government’s priorities in higher education.”
“The project has only two years left, but progress stands at just 5 per cent. We do not have enough time. We must accelerate implementation immediately,” he added.
He also said the project must be completed by 2028 and the ministry will provide full support in this regard.
On cost efficiency, he said, “The Prime Minister has instructed to reduce costs in development projects and ensure rational expenditure. The allocated funds for the HEAT project must be used judiciously.”
In his remarks, UGC Chairman Professor Mamun Ahmed said, “Although the project started late, we will complete it within the stipulated time. However, we must ensure the achievement of objectives, not just spending the funds.”
He urged those concerned to work with dedication.
“The HEAT project will play a significant role in addressing the crisis in higher education in the country. It will create opportunities to connect with international standards in research. Emphasis will be given to joint research under this project,” he said.
He also said efforts will be made to strengthen linkages between universities and industry and business organisations, while enabling collaboration among public and private research institutions.
