Internships to Be Mandatory at All Universities: UGC Chairman

The University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh is planning to make practical internships mandatory for all university students within the next five years, UGC Chairman Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed announced today.

Speaking as a special guest at the central orientation ceremony for first-year undergraduate students (2025–26 academic session) at Islamic University (IU) on Saturday morning (August 1), the UGC chairman outlined a vision to integrate hands-on career experience into higher education curricula nationwide.

"We are planning to make internships mandatory in every university within the next five years," Dr. Mamun Ahmed said. "Students will spend a designated portion of their academic life—whether two, three, or four months—working directly in the field to gain practical skills."

He clarified that "industry" in this context encompasses manufacturing, service sectors, and both public and private organizations. Furthermore, he assured that students will receive remuneration during their mandatory internship period.

Focus on Soft Skills and Digital Connectivity

Emphasizing that higher education institutions must serve as hubs for skill acquisition rather than mere degree-granting bodies, the UGC chairman stressed the necessity of equipping graduates with essential soft skills, digital literacy, critical thinking, and multilingual proficiency—including a third language alongside Bengali and English.

Addressing regional disparities, Dr. Mamun Ahmed highlighted the commission's commitment to digital transformation:

• Global Access: Digital connectivity will enable students and researchers in Kushtia to connect 24/7 with leading global institutions.

• Elimination of Peripheral Disadvantage: Technological infrastructure will ensure that no university in Bangladesh remains disadvantaged due to geographical location.

• Equity in Education: The UGC, administration, and government remain committed to ensuring equal opportunities so students do not face discrimination.

Distinguished Guests at IU Orientation

Chaired by IU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. A K M Matinur Rahman, the orientation ceremony was attended virtually by Education and Primary & Mass Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Haq Milon as chief guest.

Other notable attendees included Advisor Dr. Mahdi Amin, Secondary and Higher Education Secretary Abdul Khalek, UGC Member Prof. Dr. Abdullah Al Mamun, Meherpur University VC Prof. Dr. Tojammel Hossain, IU Pro-VC Prof. Dr. Mtaj Hossain, IU Treasurer Prof. Dr. Idris Ali, and Executive Director of the Malaysia-Bangladesh Development and Trade Relations Association Mahbub Alam Shah. Prof. Dr. S M Abdul Awal, Chief Coordinator for SDG affairs at the Prime Minister’s Office, delivered the keynote orientation address.