BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT): Excellence through Education
After the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, the country faced the daunting task of rebuilding from war with limited resources.
Poverty and unemployment were pressing issues, necessitating a focus on sectors like agriculture, remittance, tourism, IT, and the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) industry. Among these, the RMG sector has emerged as the largest contributor to export earnings, accounting for over 82% of the total, and as the leading employer in the country. This industry directly employs 4.5 million people, predominantly women, while indirectly supporting sectors like banking, shipping, and waste recycling. The RMG industry contributes 10.5% to the GDP, with the "Made in Bangladesh" label enhancing the nation's global reputation.
The rapid growth of the RMG sector created a demand for skilled professionals, leading to the establishment of the BGMEA Institute of Fashion & Technology (BIFT) in 1999 under the National University. Recognizing the growing need for expertise, the government and BGMEA leaders transformed BIFT into BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT) in 2012 under the Private University Act 2010. BUFT was officially incorporated by the Ministry of Education on March 14, 2012, and approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) on March 20, 2012. In August 2021, BUFT received a permanent certificate from the government.
BUFT's Role in National Development
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BUFT is dedicated to producing skilled graduates equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic global economy. Its focus is on quality education in fields like textile technology, fashion design, and business, fostering innovation in Bangladesh's RMG and textile sectors. By addressing global standards and social compliance, BUFT supports the nation's goal of achieving $100 billion in RMG exports by 2030.
Academic Programs and Enrollment
To meet industry demands, BUFT offers:
Undergraduate Programs: B.Sc. degrees in Apparel Merchandising & Management, Apparel Manufacturing & Technology, Business Administration, Computer Science & Engineering, English, Environmental Science, Fashion Studies, Fashion Design & Technology, Industrial Engineering, Knitwear Engineering, Textile Engineering, and Textile Engineering & Management.
Postgraduate Programs: Master's degrees in Business Administration, English, Fashion Design, and Textile Engineering.
Diploma & Certificate Courses: Post-Graduate Diploma in Apparel Merchandising, Knitwear Merchandising, Woven Garments Merchandising, Apparel Patternmaking & CAD Applications, Supply Chain Management, Garments Business Management, and Graphic Design.
Currently, BUFT offers 23 academic programs, with enrollment exceeding 6,000 students.
Key Facilities and Highlights
Campus
- Permanent green campus spanning 8.5 acres in Nishatnagar, Turag, near Uttara.
- Modern infrastructure: 500,000 sq. ft. building with 43 state-of-the-art labs, air-conditioned classrooms, auditorium, multipurpose hall, seminar rooms, library, swimming pool, gymnasium, playground, cafeteria, and more.
- Smoke-free, politics-free environment fostering academic excellence.
Academic Excellence
- Highly qualified faculty, many with Ph.Ds. from renowned international universities.
- 30+ academic and research collaborations with top global institutions.
- Regular workshops, seminars, and industry visits for hands-on learning.
Clubs & Extracurricular Activities
- 23 vibrant clubs, including BUFT Fashion Club, BUFT Games & Sports Club, and BUFT Film, Photography & Media Club.
- Students actively participate in global fashion shows, design competitions, and cultural programs.
Student Support
- Free bus service, language labs, internet access, and career development programs.
- International scholarships and robust placement support.
Specializations and Research
- Focus on fashion, textile technology, engineering, and business disciplines.
- Research on sustainable textile development, innovative garment production techniques, and pollution prevention.
- Collaboration with industry giants and academic institutions for real-world problem-solving and innovation.
Governance and Leadership
Chairman: Mr. Faruque Hassan, a prominent leader in Bangladesh's RMG industry.
Vice-Chancellor (Acting): Prof. Dr. Engr. Ayub Nabi Khan
Treasurer: Prof. Md. Alamgir Hossian, PhD
Registrar: Mr. Md. Rafiquzzaman
Global Collaborations
- Partnerships with leading universities, including Manchester Metropolitan University (UK), National Institute of Fashion Technology (India), and Wuhan Textile University (China).
- Active collaborations with international organizations and local industry leaders like DBL Group, BEXIMCO, and Walton.
Memberships and Recognition
- Member of international organizations like IFFTI, the Association of Commonwealth Universities, and the Alliance for Textile Industry.
- Founder member of the B&R World Textile University Alliance.
BUFT's Contribution to the RMG Sector
As a leading educational hub, BUFT is at the forefront of providing skilled professionals and innovative solutions for Bangladesh's RMG and textile industries. With its state-of-the-art facilities, strong industry linkages, and commitment to sustainable development, BUFT continues to shape the future of fashion and textiles on both national and global fronts.
