Dhaka: The University of Dhaka has taken a significant step towards global inclusion in higher education by establishing a UNESCO Chair within its institution.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the inaugural ceremony for the chair, titled “Inclusion in Higher Education Systems,” marks a pivotal development in aligning Bangladesh’s academic endeavors with a global network that spans over 125 countries under the UNITWIN/UNESCO Chairs Programme. This initiative positions DU among more than 1,000 global institutions that host UNESCO Chairs, fostering international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and joint research opportunities.
The official establishment of the Chair was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan and UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. Professor Dr. Mohammad Ali Jinnah from DU’s Institute of Education and Research will lead the initiative, with Professor Dr. Md Ahsan Habib serving as Co-Chair holder.
The Chair aims to enhance research, education, training, community outreach, and policy dialogue focused on inclusive education, equity, and sustainable development in higher education systems. This initiative will provide DU’s faculty, researchers, and students with direct access to international academic partnerships, including joint research and education programs.
Core objectives of the Chair include building teacher capacity through specialized training in inclusive education, promoting academic publications on higher education inclusion, and encouraging student engagement in global seminars, webinars, and policy discussions.
The Chair’s first term will be valid until June 30, 2029, with performance evaluations and renewal plans to be conducted before the term expires. All activities under the Chair will adhere strictly to UNESCO’s guidelines, including regulations on the non-commercial use of its logo.