BM Report:
The Bangladesh University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced that it will continue with the cluster admission test system for the upcoming academic year. This decision comes despite the commission’s initial plans to introduce a single admission test for all universities.
UGC Chairman (Additional Duties) Prof. Muhammad Alamgir made the announcement at a meeting with stakeholders on Wednesday. He explained that due to “unavoidable reasons,” it was not possible to implement the single admission test plan this year.
Prof. Alamgir also urged universities outside the cluster admission test system, including Dhaka University and Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), to join the cluster this year. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities to streamline the admission process.
In addition to addressing the admission test system, Prof. Alamgir raised concerns about the pet quota system in public university entrance exams. He questioned the relevance of the pet quota, given the large number of high-achieving students in recent years.
“More than 92,000 students obtained GPA-5 in the HSC examination this year,” he stated. “Public universities have over 60,000 seats. These students will not be able to get admission to their desired university and subject under such circumstances.”
Prof. Alamgir advised universities to reconsider the pet quota system, suggesting that it may limit opportunities for deserving students.
A UGC member in charge of the planning and development department also highlighted the commission’s efforts to improve higher education in Bangladesh. He emphasized the need to align academic programs with domestic and international contexts, ensuring quality education, a conducive research environment, and adequate funding.
Dr. Ferdous Zaman, UGC Secretary, reiterated the importance of quality education in achieving the nation’s development goals. He stressed that UGC is committed to formulating strategic plans and policies to elevate Bangladesh’s higher education landscape.
The meeting brought together representatives from various stakeholders, including Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Jagannath University, Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, UGC officials, and media representatives.
