Dhaka: Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon today called on the universities to lay emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and research to improve the quality of education and strengthen the country's position in the global competition.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks while addressing the QS Bangladesh Forum-2026 as the chief guest at a hotel in Dhaka. Representatives from more than 90 universities across the country attended the event. Milon emphasized the necessity of expanding TVET education at the university level to transform the country's large population into a skilled workforce. He also highlighted the importance of increasing the use of AI in higher education.
Milon stated that improving both the scope and quality of research is necessary for universities to enhance their positions in the QS rankings. He stressed the importance of cross-border education to better connect the country's higher education sector with the international community. The minister acknowledged the presence of talented teachers and students in Bangladesh, noting their achievements abroad and contributions to research.
He advocated for reversing the brain drain by encouraging talented Bangladeshis living abroad to return and contribute to national development. Milon expressed the ambition to transform the country into an education hub, emphasizing Bangladesh's capacity to achieve this goal.
University Grants Commission Chairman Prof. Dr Mamun Ahmed presented the keynote paper at the event. Other notable speakers included Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh Chairman Dr Md Sabur Khan, American International University-Bangladesh Board of Trustees member Ishtiaq Abedin, and QS Chief Commercial Officer Jason Newman. QS India Chairman Dr Ashwini Fernandes delivered the welcome address.
Milon also mentioned initiatives to simplify visa procedures to boost foreign investment in Bangladesh and attract more international students. He stated that implementing these initiatives would facilitate the arrival of foreign students in Bangladesh for higher education, making the country more appealing to international students and expanding its higher education sector globally.