Technology initiative aims to narrow access gaps
UGC Plans Satellite TV for Higher Education
- UGC plans a dedicated television channel to expand access to higher education.
- Around 180 public and private universities could join a digital network within two years.
- Bangladesh Open University’s existing facilities may support a pilot initiative.
In a strategic bid to bridge regional disparities and ensure equitable academic opportunities across tertiary institutions, the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh is planning to launch a dedicated satellite television channel for higher education. The regulatory body intends to leverage the technical broadcast infrastructure of Bangladesh Open University (BOU) to initiate pilot transmission.
The plan was announced by UGC Chairman Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, while addressing a discussion marking the 34th founding anniversary of Bangladesh Open University.
Addressing the assembly, Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed observed that notable disparities exist in academic resources and instructional standards between metropolitan universities and those situated in peripheral, rural jurisdictions. A dedicated broadcast network would connect students and faculties across the country, providing uniform access to high-standard lectures and scholarly content. He noted that BOU's comprehensive media production centers and distance-learning systems provide a ready framework to test and scale the broadcast model.
The UGC Chairman also disclosed an infrastructure roadmap to bring approximately 180 public and private universities under a unified digital network within the next two years. The plan entails equipping campuses with gigabit-speed connectivity, smart classrooms, and centralized digital repositories to foster institutional collaboration, joint research initiatives, and resource optimization. The platform will also serve to integrate Bangladeshi expatriate academics and researchers working overseas directly into domestic academic programs.
Emphasizing the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital platforms on traditional pedagogy, Prof. Ahmed underscored the urgency of transitioning from rote learning toward skill-based, technology-driven education. He observed that while open digital repositories democratize access to knowledge, formal distance-education models must adapt their technical frameworks to maintain relevance in a competitive technological environment.
The commemorative plenary was attended by Minister of Education Dr. A. N. M. Ehsanul Hoque Milan as Chief Guest, with BOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman Khan presiding. Former Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Emeritus Prof. Dr. Anwarullah Chowdhury delivered the keynote address. The session was attended by BOU Pro-VC (Academic) Prof. Dr. Anisur Rahman, Pro-VC (Administration) Prof. Dr. Md. Sirajul Islam, Treasurer Prof. Dr. Sheikh Rafiqul Islam, alongside vice-chancellors of multiple public and private universities, official sources confirmed.
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