University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a formal clarification regarding the research budget allocation for public universities for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
This follows media reports based on “incomplete information” that risked creating confusion among teachers, researchers, and students.
The commission confirmed that Tk226 crore has been allocated for research – an increase of approximately 13 per cent compared to the previous year – and dismissed claims that no budget had been provided as incorrect.
In its statement, the UGC noted that the financing method for research projects has been simplified and made more transparent to avoid duplication in line with government decisions.
The commission assured that these procedural changes would not infringe upon the academic freedom, institutional autonomy, research priorities, or thematic diversity of the universities.
On 2 July 2026, the UGC sent letters to all public universities requesting they submit their research plans, sub-sector wise funding requirements, and budget estimates. The commission stated it would move to release the necessary funds promptly after receiving these demand notes from the universities.
In its guidelines for budget formulation, the UGC has requested universities to prioritise greater participation of students at the undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels in research activities.
The commission also emphasised the creation of a research ecosystem by ensuring that senior researchers work alongside emerging researchers and students.
Moreover, universities have been urged to consider national requirements and government priorities when formulating their research projects.
