Innovation Imperative: Integrated IP Initiatives Urged to Accelerate Research in Universities

Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Hoque Milan has called on public and private universities, the University Grants Commission (UGC), and relevant stakeholders to take coordinated initiatives to achieve excellence in research and innovation and to ensure the protection of intellectual property (IP).

He also advised organizing competitions across all universities in the country to promote innovation through research and to raise awareness about the importance of protecting intellectual property.

The minister made these remarks as the chief guest at a workshop held at the Bangladesh University Grants Commission on the occasion of “World Intellectual Property Day 2026.” The workshop was organized by the UGC on 26 April, Sunday, with the aim of accelerating research and innovation activities and ensuring the protection of innovators’ interests.

He further stated that all necessary support would be provided to increase the number of intellectual property rights and patents among researchers. Referring to brain drain as a major obstacle to the country’s research and development, the minister emphasized the need to identify its root causes and take effective measures to address the issue.

The event, chaired by UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed, featured remarks from special guest Commission Member Professor Dr. Masuma Habib. UGC Secretary Dr. Md. Fakhrul Islam delivered the welcome address.

On the occasion, the keynote paper was presented by Professor Dr. Mahidus Samad Khan of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). The paper was discussed by Professor Dr. Syed Farhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University.

In his address, Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Hoque Milan noted that the Honorable Prime Minister places significant importance on intellectual property protection. He stressed the need to actively work on creating and safeguarding intellectual assets. The government, he said, would extend all necessary support to ensure discussions on intellectual property in all universities and to gradually increase the number of patents. He also urged the UGC to introduce recognition mechanisms for university researchers who achieve intellectual property milestones.

He added that Bangladesh’s share in global intellectual property remains negligible relative to its population. The expected progress in research and innovation has not been achieved. Proper protection and commercialization of intellectual property, he said, could open new horizons for the country.

In his presidential remarks, UGC Chairman Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed stated that the Commission is working to build an innovation ecosystem in universities to encourage research and innovation. He noted that relevant university authorities would be consulted to determine necessary strategies.

He further mentioned that initiatives are underway to establish Intellectual Property Cells in every university to ensure the protection of innovations. Additionally, steps have been taken to establish Technology Transfer Offices to facilitate the commercialization of innovations and make them accessible to the public. He emphasized that policies would be developed to ensure that all stakeholders—innovators, universities, and industries—benefit from these efforts.

The UGC Chairman also pointed out that although numerous research activities are conducted in universities, most end with publication, and only a few contribute to commercialization. As a result, while individual academic profiles are strengthened and may aid in promotions, the general public does not receive the expected benefits.

He added that despite an increase in the number of universities, the desired quality of education has yet to be achieved, stressing the need for special attention to underperforming institutions.

He called on universities to align their academic calendars with the HSC examination schedule and to complete academic activities within stipulated timelines. He also emphasized the need for a structured approach to university admission processes so that students can plan accordingly.

The event was attended by UGC Members Professor Dr. Mohammad Anowar Hossain, Professor Dr. Md. Saidur Rahman, and Professor Dr. Mohammad Ayub Islam, along with vice-chancellors from various universities, directors of IQAC cells, and officials from the Ministry of Education and other relevant institutions.

Professor Dr. Masuma Habib noted that around 5,000 research projects are conducted annually in the country, but due to a lack of adequate support, only about 30 result in patent applications. She added that the UGC has taken several initiatives to raise awareness about intellectual property, including organizing workshops, establishing IP cells and Technology Transfer Offices, and developing IP policies.

DBTech/MAJR/EK/OR