UGC approves Tk10,320cr budget for 49 public universities

The University Grant Commission (UGC) on Thursday approved a budget of more than Tk10,320 crore for 49 public universities of the country for fiscal 2021-22.

The budget includes Tk5,875.81 crore of revenue expenditure and Tk4,157 crore of development outlay, said a press release issued by the regulatory authority of the country's higher education.

The approval came at a UGC meeting presided over by its Chairman Dr Kazi Shahidullah.

This year, the budget has been increased by Tk1,548 crore compared to last fiscal year when 46 public universities were allocated Tk8,485.12 crore.

The Dhaka University was given the highest allocation while the Habiganj Agriculture University received the least amount, it said.

Tk100.74 crore was allocated for research purpose in higher education of the public universities which is Tk34 crore more compared to the previous budget.

Talking about the increased budget for research, UGC Chairman said, "We have to ensure quality education and endure knowledge through researches to sustain a trail of advancement of the country."

UGC Members Prof Dr Dil Afroza Begum, Prof Dr Md Sazzad Hossain, Prof Dr Muhammad Alamgir, Prof Dr Bishwajit Chanda and Prof Dr Md Abu Taher were also present at the meeting.