JICA Signals Strong Support for Strengthening Science in Higher Studies

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has expressed interest in investing in Bangladesh’s higher education sector. A five-year project aimed at improving science and technology education in the country’s top-tier universities is expected to be launched in 2028.

JICA conveyed this interest during a courtesy meeting with Professor Dr. S.M.A. Foyez, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), on Wednesday, 10 December.

UGC Members Professor Dr. Mohammad Tanzimuddin Khan, Professor Dr. Mohammad Anwar Hossain, Professor Dr. Md. Saidur Rahman, Professor Dr. Mashuma Habib, Professor Dr. Mohammad Ayub Islam, and Jasmine Parvin, Director (Acting) of the International Cooperation Division, were present at the meeting.

An eight-member JICA delegation, led by Deputy Director General Daisuke Ueda, participated in the discussion.

According to JICA’s concept note, if implemented, the project will directly connect Bangladeshi universities with Japan’s top research and technology institutions. Planned initiatives include shared access to joint research laboratories, joint postgraduate degree programmes, internship opportunities in Japan for undergraduate students, PhD scholarships for faculty and students, housing and employment facilities for students, and strengthened industry–academia collaboration.

JICA representative Daisuke Ueda stated that a full feasibility study for the project will begin soon. As part of this process, the delegation has already visited major public universities in Bangladesh and collected relevant information.

During the meeting, Ueda noted that Bangladesh will graduate from LDC status and enter the category of developing nations in 2026. As a result, the demand for technology, innovation, and industrial diversification will rise rapidly. He believes that strengthening higher education at this stage is crucial, and the proposed JICA project will help bring about necessary advancements.

UGC Chairman Professor Faiz welcomed the initiative, saying the project would significantly enhance research, innovation, and technology-driven education in universities. He added that students would develop international-standard competencies, improving their prospects in the job market.

He further stated that the UGC would extend full support to the project and requested that more universities be included in the programme.

DBTech/SA/EK/OR