Rangamati: A delegation led by Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Bangladesh Clinton Pobke paid a courtesy call on Rangamati Science and Technology University (RMSTU) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md Atiar Rahman today. The Australian delegation comprised First Secretary (Development Cooperation) Saeed Haider, Program Manager Imam Nahil, country program manager of Australia Awards Bangladesh, Kanchan Khisa, and Program Officer Hridita Dewan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the RMSTU Vice-Chancellor welcomed the delegation with flowers, and a meeting followed later. During the meeting, Prof. Dr. Md Atiar Rahman highlighted the university's early history, infrastructural progress, academic advancement, ongoing RIC and tourism hub projects, as well as research allocation. He emphasized the need for joint research, student exchanges, and the establishment of a language institute at RMSTU.
Deputy High Commissioner Pobke expressed gratitude to the university authorities and conveyed interest in strengthening ties between the institutions. He praised Australia's experience in tourism and cultural diversity and demonstrated willingness to collaborate on agriculture and tourism-based research, particularly to promote Kaptai Lake. He also encouraged RMSTU teachers and students to apply for Australia Awards scholarships and short courses.
Additionally, Pobke inquired about student numbers, enrolment patterns, and challenges in promoting higher education in the region. The meeting also discussed easing rules for foreign researchers and emphasized the importance of IT courses, vocational training, foreign language learning, practical education, agriculture and climate research, and preservation of local cultural heritage.
During his campus visit, the high commissioner admired the scenic environment and RMSTU's development, expressing interest in future collaborations. Senior university officials and representatives of the district were present during the meeting and the visit.