International Universities Explore Campuses in Bangladesh

By Vaidant September 3, 2025
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International universities are showing increasing interest in setting up campuses and dual degree programmes in Bangladesh, as the country works to strengthen higher education standards while avoiding over-commercialisation.

Last week, University Grants Commission (UGC) chairman Professor SMA Faiz met with a delegation from the UK’s University of East Anglia in Dhaka. The discussions focused on potential transnational education opportunities, including the possibility of the university opening a campus in Bangladesh or partnering with local institutions such as Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) and the Military Institute of Science and Technology for joint and dual degree programmes.

Steve McGuire, pro-vice-chancellor (international) at the University of East Anglia, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining “strict academic and administrative standards” for any overseas ventures.

The talks come as the UGC drafts a clear policy framework for foreign universities operating in Bangladesh. A high-powered committee, led by UGC member Mohammad Anwar Hossen and comprising academics from top institutions including the University of Dhaka, BUET, North South University, and Jahangirnagar University, is tasked with preparing the guidelines.

Hossen noted that while private universities in Bangladesh have reached a certain level of quality, public universities continue to face challenges around salaries, facilities, and research opportunities. He cautioned that international campuses could increase pressure on local educators if not carefully regulated.

The proposed policy outlines requirements such as 25,000 square feet of campus space, full-time academic staff, a fixed deposit of Tk 5 crore (£306,400) and a non-refundable application fee of Tk 10 lakh (£6,120).

Malaysia’s UCSI University has already become the first international institution to secure approval from both the UGC and the Ministry of Education to establish a branch campus in Bangladesh. Its Dhaka campus has begun academic operations, setting a precedent for others to follow.

Bangladesh’s strategy reflects a growing ambition to attract foreign universities, balancing opportunities for global collaboration with protecting national academic interests.

Source: THE PIE NEWS

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