‘Jamuna International University’ Set to Launch
Ministry Directs UGC to Inspect New Private University
A new player is set to join Bangladesh's higher education landscape. Jamuna Group, one of the country's leading industrial conglomerates, has officially applied for permission to establish a new institution named ‘Jamuna International University.’ Both the Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission (UGC) have confirmed the development to The Daily Campus.
The Ministry of Education has recently forwarded a letter to the UGC regarding Jamuna Group's application. The directive instructs the commission to conduct a thorough feasibility study and submit a detailed report on the proposed university’s infrastructure, faculty plans, and financial viability.
The Private University Landscape: Current Context
The move comes at a time when the private education sector in Bangladesh is undergoing significant structural changes.
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Current Status: There are currently 116 private universities operating in the country.
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Regulatory Shift: These institutions are currently governed by the ‘Private University Act 2010.’ However, the interim government has taken initiatives to replace this with the ‘Private University Act 2025 (Draft),’ which is nearing its official gazette notification.
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Policy Update: The draft policy has already been submitted to the Ministry of Education for final approval, aiming to enhance transparency and academic standards across all private campuses.
UGC's Evaluation Process
In response to the Ministry's letter, the UGC is expected to form a specialized inspection committee. This committee will evaluate whether the Jamuna Group's proposal meets the rigorous requirements set by the government, particularly focusing on:
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Campus Infrastructure: Availability of a temporary or permanent campus that meets the required square footage.
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Financial Reserve: Verification of the mandated reserve fund (endowment) in the university's name.
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Academic Framework: Proposed departments, curriculum, and the recruitment of qualified faculty members.
Connection to Broader National News
It is worth noting that the "Jamuna" name has been prominent in the headlines today for other reasons as well. Earlier this afternoon, the National Pay Commission members concluded their final meeting and traveled to the Chief Adviser’s residence, also named ‘Jamuna,’ to submit the final report for the 9th National Pay Scale. The report recommends a significant increase in salaries and pensions, proposed to be implemented in phases starting from January 2026.
