Professional development of teachers a must
The observations were made at an International Higher Education Symposium held at The Westin Dhaka in the capital city.
Speakers at a conference focused on the necessity of professional development of teachers in higher education and of curriculum reform.
The observations were made at an International Higher Education Symposium held at The Westin Hotel in Dhaka on Monday, said a press release.
Experts at the programme also put emphasis on professional development opportunities for university faculty members, and the necessity of improving the curriculum to meet the growing need for graduate-level employment.
The British Council Bangladesh, in strategic partnership with the University Grants Commission (UGC), arranged the conference to provide opportunities for participants to explore the future direction of teaching and learning, and improve the quality of higher education.
Speakers also highlighted the contribution of teaching and the learning process that can ensure the quality enhancement of the higher education sector in Bangladesh.
Education ministry Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain said several quality improvement reform programmes have now been initiated for all subsectors in education - primary and secondary level as well as in the higher education and vocational sector.
"Sharing programmes, courses, research and staff can bring substantial benefits for the institutions, faculty and ultimately the students. Internationalising higher education is also a way of improving standards and ranking," said British Council's Country Director Tom Miscioscia who presided over the symposium.
At the inaugural session, British high commissioner to Bangladesh, Robert Dickson said, "The way to build on this success and to compete in the world market is through rigorous and ruthless emphasis on quality in higher education. This means continuous professional development for teachers, internationalising of higher education and taking advantage of new opportunities."
Speaking on the occasion, University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof Dr Kazi Shahidullah said the UGC and the education ministry are keen pick up on the learnings from this symposium and to capitalise on the international expertise here today.
Vice-Chancellors and senior professors from different public and private universities, 200 stakeholders of the higher education sector in Bangladesh, including senior government officials were also present at the event.