The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh has initiated a move to establish a central national research repository to preserve, coordinate, and utilise research data and results.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to increase funding and build a more integrated and effective research ecosystem within the country.
UGC Chairman Mamun Ahmed said there will be no shortage of funding for quality research aimed at addressing the nation’s development challenges. However, he emphasised that the proper use of allocated funds, along with transparency and accountability, must be strictly ensured.
He made these remarks as the chief guest during an orientation programme for researchers selected under the “UGC PhD Scholarship 2025-2026,” held at UGC Auditorium on Thursday.
Addressing misconceptions regarding the state of local research, Mamun noted that research plays a vital role in the progress of economically and technologically advanced nations.
Following these global experiences, the UGC is establishing a modern repository to foster a research-friendly environment and manage research outcomes in the higher education sector.
Regarding financial allocations, Mamun revealed that approximately Tk849 crore was disbursed through the UGC’s revenue and development budgets for research activities over the past year.
He added that efforts are underway to further increase funding in line with the government’s research-friendly policies.
Mamun further stressed that funds allocated for specific projects must strictly follow transparency guidelines and cannot be diverted to other sectors. He insisted that money designated for students, young teachers, and experienced researchers must be used solely for its intended purpose.
Mamun urged researchers to prioritise national development goals and seek real-world solutions to contribute to the country’s socio-economic growth. Congratulating the scholarship recipients, he described the programme as highly competitive and prestigious, calling on them to play a key role in strengthening the national research culture.
The orientation programme was attended by UGC members Professor Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Professor Md Saidur Rahman, Professor Masuma Habib, Professor Mohammad Ayub Islam, and Professor Abdullah-al-Mamun as special guests.
The session was presided over by Research Grants and Awards Division Director (Additional Charge) Md Omar Faruque, while Additional Director Md Shahin Siraj delivered the welcome address.
A total of 147 applications were received from various universities and colleges for the 2025-26 PhD scholarship cycle, from which 65 researchers were ultimately selected. Selected researchers and their supervisors participated in the orientation.
