The Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced the launch of a short-term soft skills training programme aimed at enhancing the employability and professional competencies of university students nationwide. The initiative was revealed during a consultation meeting held at the HEAT Project Office to discuss the formulation of the training programme under the Higher Education Acceleration and Transformation (HEAT) Project.
Meeting Details and Key Participants
The meeting, chaired by UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, included key participants such as UGC Member Professor Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, HEAT Project Director Professor Dr. Asaduzzaman, Dean of the University Teachers Training Academy Professor Dr. Laila Nur, and other concerned officials. The discussions focused on the need for a specialised training programme that would cover soft skills, ethics and values, employability skills, and various life-oriented subjects.
Programme Outline and Implementation
Before finalising the training contents, an assessment or survey will be conducted to identify students' skill gaps and actual needs. UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed stated, 'Work is underway to finalise the outline of the programme within the next three months. Students of all universities across the country will gradually be brought under this training programme. This timely initiative has been taken as part of implementing the government’s priority to improve students’ professional competence, ethics and life-oriented capabilities.'
Additional Programmes and Strategic Plans
The meeting also decided to launch a two-day 'Professional Knowledge Sharing Programme' for vice-chancellors, pro-vice-chancellors, and treasurers starting next month. This programme will focus on strategic leadership, university management, financial administration, and other key aspects of higher education governance. International and national experts will be invited to share their experiences.
Enhancing Academic and Administrative Capacities
Additionally, a seven-day special training programme is being introduced to enhance the academic and administrative capacities of associate professors and professors. The UGC's strategic plan for long-term reforms in the country's higher education sector is also being updated and is expected to be finalised within this month.
Significance and Future Implications
This initiative is significant as it addresses the growing need for well-rounded professionals in the job market. By equipping students with essential soft skills and ethical values, the programme aims to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and industry requirements. The involvement of international experts and the focus on continuous professional development for university administrators further underscore the comprehensive approach of the UGC in reforming higher education in Bangladesh.
