Focus on AI Skills Needed: UGC Member Professor Mamun

Professor Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC), has emphasized research, innovation, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based skill development to bring the country's higher education in line with global standards. He also stressed the expansion of technical education and third-language learning.

It was learned on Monday, July 13, that he made these remarks as chief guest at the closing and prize-giving ceremony of the "SUST Computer Science and Engineering Carnival 2026," held at the Central Auditorium of Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) on Sunday, July 12.

The two-day carnival was organized by the university's Department of Computer Science and Engineering and the CSE Society.

Speaking at the event, Professor Dr. Mamun said that in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, universities must evolve beyond being mere degree-awarding institutions and become centers for knowledge creation, research, innovation, and skilled human resource development. He added that equal importance must be given to helping students develop problem-solving abilities, a research mindset, creativity, and technical skills.

He further said that university education and research must be more effectively linked to industry needs. He also called for greater collaboration among universities, industry, and research institutions to build a skilled workforce in emerging technology sectors such as AI, data science, cybersecurity, and software development.
The UGC member added that if initiatives such as expanding technical education, promoting third-language learning, fostering industry-academia collaboration, offering innovation grants and startup funds, establishing employment exchange centers, and introducing an "Edu ID" system are implemented, the country's higher education would become more employment-oriented, technology-driven, and internationally competitive.

The event was addressed by SUST Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Khairul Islam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Sazedul Karim, Treasurer Professor Dr. Ismail Hossain, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science and Technology Professor Dr. Mohammad Mastabur Rahman, bKash Chief Product and Technology Officer Mohammad Azmal Huda, and BRAC University Professor Dr. Mohammad Kaykobad. The ceremony was chaired by Professor Dr. Md. Forhad Rabbi, Head of the Department of CSE.

The two-day carnival featured an inter-university programming contest, a hackathon, and technology-focused seminars. Prizes were distributed among the winners at the closing ceremony.
//DBTech/SUC/ED//