In the bustling city of Guangzhou, Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon called for a more robust and structured educational partnership between Bangladesh and China. Speaking at the China-Bangladesh Education Exchange Conference held at South China Normal University, Milon underscored the importance of long-term collaboration between universities. He highlighted potential areas for cooperation such as joint research, scholarships, student and faculty exchanges, short-term training programs, and joint Master’s and PhD programs.
Milon encouraged institutions from both countries to establish sustainable academic partnerships. The conference saw the participation of senior education officials and university leaders from Bangladesh and China. On the Bangladeshi side, Prime Minister’s Education Adviser Mahdi Amin and Technical and Madrasah Education Secretary Md. Daud Miah were present. The Chinese delegation included Xu Shimin, the Provincial Chief Inspector of the Department of Education of Guangdong Province; Zhou Liuyu, Deputy Director of the Exchange and Cooperation Office; Engr. Sheikh Korban Ali, Vice-President of the China-Bangladesh Education and Culture Association; Wang Peng, Vice-Secretary; Zheng Pengwu, Consultant; and Professor Yang Chengwei, Vice President of South China Normal University.
During the conference, Xu Shimin reiterated Guangdong's commitment to international education and its intention to accept more Bangladeshi students. He noted that 261 Bangladeshi students studied in Guangdong during the 2024-2025 academic year, with 20 receiving the Guangdong Government Scholarship in 2025. The event concluded with both parties reaffirming their dedication to enhancing university cooperation, academic exchange, and long-term educational partnerships between China and Bangladesh.
The call for deeper educational ties comes at a time when both countries are looking to strengthen their academic and research capabilities. Enhanced collaboration could provide Bangladeshi students with greater access to quality education in China, while Chinese institutions could benefit from the diverse cultural and academic perspectives that Bangladeshi students bring. Moreover, joint research initiatives could lead to significant advancements in various fields, fostering mutual growth and understanding.
For Bangladeshi students, studying abroad in China offers the opportunity to gain international exposure and experience, which can be invaluable in their future careers. Additionally, scholarships and exchange programs can help bridge the financial gap, making higher education more accessible. On the other hand, Chinese institutions can enrich their academic environment by welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, promoting a more globalized educational experience.
