University Grants Commission (UGC) plans to commercialise technology and knowledge developed in university laboratories by increasing joint research funding, setting up Technology Transfer Offices and building startup incubators, Chairman Mamun Ahmed said.
He said the moves aim to connect research to industry and support a $1 trillion economy and 10 million high-value jobs in five years.
Mamun Ahmed spoke at the opening of the three-day Fifth International Conference on Innovations in Science, Engineering and Technology at International Islamic University Chittagong (IIUC) on Sunday, said a press release.
The UGC Chairman said industries still rely heavily on foreign technology, software and consultancy, though local researchers can solve problems. He cited port supply chain automation, AI in garment factories and power transmission efficiency.
IIUC Vice-Chancellor Mohammad Ali Azadi presided over the event.
IIUC Pro-VC Mohammad Hasmat Ali, Treasurer Mohammad Mahbubur Rahman, Kathmandu University professor Sudhan Jha, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia’s Azni Haslizan binte Abi Halim, IEEE Bangladesh Section President M Imamul Hasan Bhuiya, IIUC professors Md Raju Ahmed, Shikdar Sanbim Islam and Mohammad Shamsul Alam also spoke at the event.
