The World Bank has officially assessed the implementation of the Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) project, currently being executed by the University Grants Commission (UGC), as ‘moderately satisfactory’.
This update was provided by a three-member delegation from the bank during a meeting with UGC Chairman Mamun Ahmed held on Wednesday. The delegation was spearheaded by TM Asaduzzaman, a senior education specialist and task team leader.
According to Asaduzzaman, the HEAT project represents a “frontline investment” in the country’s higher education sector. He noted that its primary goals include the development of skilled human resources and the creation of future employment opportunities.
Additionally, he confirmed that the project’s mid-term review is slated to begin in April, calling for cooperation from all stakeholders to meet the established deadlines.
The UGC chairman described the initiative as one of the most critical for Bangladesh’s higher education landscape. He asserted that its successful execution would be instrumental in improving educational quality and addressing long-standing structural hurdles.
The chairman highlighted that training programmes for young faculty members initiated under the project are already producing positive results. He stressed the importance of continued support from the World Bank to ensure these initiatives are institutionalised.
Furthermore, Mamun directed officials to establish clear targets and robust plans, while emphasizing the need for transparency, accountability, and dedication throughout the project’s execution. He also called for visible progress reports and openness in decision-making.
The meeting also saw the participation of UGC Member Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan, HEAT Project Director Asaduzzaman, and other high-ranking officials from both the UGC and the project team.
