Bangladesh Open University - Overview

Bangladesh Open University (BOU) is a public university established on 21 October 1992, located in Board Bazar, Gazipur District. It is the only public university in Bangladesh using distance education as its delivery method and is the 8th largest university in the world by enrollment.

Administration

• Chancellor: President Mohammed Shahabuddin
• Vice-Chancellor: A. B. M. Obaidul Islam
• Pro Vice-Chancellor (Administration): Vacant
• Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic): Vacant
• Treasurer: Mostafa Azad Kamal
• Registrar: Md. Shafiqul Alam

History

Distance education in Bangladesh began with radio distribution in 1962, evolving into the Audio-Visual Education Centre (AVEC), National Institute of Educational Media and Technology (NIEMT), and Bangladesh Institute of Distance Education (BIDE). BIDE offered distance Bachelor of Education validated by Rajshahi University. In 1992, the Bangladesh Open University Act established BOU. In 2009, the president became its chancellor. In 2024, BOU signed an MoU with the Directorate of Youth Development for youth empowerment.

Vice-Chancellors

• A. B. M. Obaidul Islam (Present)
• Syed Humayun Akhter
• M. A. Mannan (2012 to 2021)

Academics

BOU offers formal and non-formal programs through seven schools, 12 regional resource centres, 80 coordinating offices, and 1,000 tutorial centres nationwide.

Formal Programs

21 academic programs leading to qualifications up to a master's degree.

Non-Formal Programs

19 programs in health, environment, disaster management, science, agriculture, food, nutrition, and other areas to promote literacy and human development.

Schools and Programs

School of Education (SoE)

• Bachelor of Education (BEd)
• Master of Education (MEd)
• Certificate in Education (CEd)

School of Social Science, Humanities & Languages (SSHL)

• MA/MSS (Preliminary & Final)
• LLB (Honours)
• BA/BSS (Honours) in various subjects including Bangla, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, English, History, Islamic History and Culture
• BELT
• Certificate in Arabic/English Language Proficiency

School of Business (SoB)

• BBA
• MBA, PMBA, CEMBA, CEMPA
• PGDM
• Certificate in Management
• MPhil and PhD

School of Agriculture & Rural Development (SARD)

• Bachelor of Agricultural Education
• MS in seven subjects (Agronomy, Entomology, Soil Science, IWM, Aquaculture, Poultry Science)
• Diploma in Youth in Development Work
• Certificates in Livestock, Poultry, Pisciculture, Fish Processing

School of Science & Technology (SST)

• BSc in Computer Science and Engineering
• MDMR for MBBS Doctors
• Master of Public Health
• PG Diploma in Medical Ultrasound
• Diploma in Computer Science and Application

Open School

• MBA in Bangla
• Masters in Criminology and Criminal Justice
• BBA in Bangla
• BBS (3-year)
• SSC and HSC programs

Accreditation

BOU confers degrees under Clause 6(c) of the BOU Act 1992. It is recognized as a national university by the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh and is a founding member of the SAARC Consortium on Open and Distance Learning (SACODiL).

Clubs

• Bangladesh Open University Computer Club (BOUCC)
• Open University Programming Club
• Open University Computer Society (OUCS)
• Open University Students Union of SST (OUSUS)

Bangladesh Open University - Expanding Access to Quality Education

Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) - Complete Guide

Q: What is SUST?

A: It is a public research university in Sylhet, Bangladesh, founded in 1986. It's the 8th oldest in the country and pioneering in physical sciences and engineering education.

Q: Where is it located?

A: In Kumargaon, about six kilometers from Sylhet city center.

Q: What makes its academic system unique?

A: First in Bangladesh to adopt the American credit system and to introduce integrated honors courses.

Q: What is the student and staff population?

A: About 7,662 students, 487 academic staff, and 772 administrative staff as of recent data.

Q: What is notable about its research funding?

A: In 2017 it had the highest research spending among all Bangladeshi universities.

Q: What major innovations is SUST known for?

A: Invented Bangladesh's first paperless SMS-based admission registration system, winning national and regional awards.

Q: How competitive is its admission?

A: Extremely. For instance, in 2018-19, it had over 76,000 applicants for fewer than 1,500 seats.

Q: How is SUST ranked internationally?

A: SCImago ranked it 610th worldwide in 2019, with strong research and innovation scores. QS ranked it 342nd in Asia in 2025.

Q: What conferences does SUST host?

A: The International Conference on Engineering Research, Innovation and Education (ICERIE) and many others across sciences and social sciences.

Q: With whom does SUST collaborate internationally?

A: Partners include universities and institutions in the USA, UK, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Japan, and South Korea.

Q: Describe the CSE Carnival.

A: A popular annual event since 2011 with contests in programming and software development, attracting students nationwide.

Q: What schools and departments exist?

A: Seven schools cover 28 departments, including Applied Sciences and Technology, Life Sciences, Management, Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Agriculture, and Medical Sciences.

Q: What is the 'Second Major Program'?

A: An opportunity for students to earn a second major in departments like EEE, Physics, or Mathematics after passing an aptitude test.

Q: What institutes does SUST have?

A: Institute of Information and Communication Technology and Institute of Modern Languages, offering various programs including Software Engineering and multiple languages.

Q: What research centers are notable?

A: CRTC units in Architecture, CSE, CEE, and Physics conduct advanced research from water treatment to cancer detection technology.

Q: What is the campus like?

A: 320 acres with landmarks like Shahid Minar and green spaces. Known for its vibrant student life and cultural events.

Q: What library resources exist?

A: Over 180,000 volumes, electronic access via LAN, OPAC, and facilities in all departments and halls.

Q: What residential facilities are there?

A: Six main halls plus private accommodation support, with specific halls for female students outside the main campus.

Q: What sports facilities exist?

A: Grounds for cricket, football, basketball, plus gymnasium. Hosts professional cricket and football leagues unique in Bangladesh.

Q: What cultural groups are active?

A: Over 20 clubs including theater groups, debating societies, voluntary organizations, film societies, and more.

SUST - Committed to Excellence in Science and Technology

Khulna University (KU), Bangladesh

A comprehensive academic overview of Khulna University, a leading public research university in Bangladesh, established in 1991 along the Moyur River in Khulna city.

History and Establishment

First proposed in 1974 by the Kudrat-e-Khuda Commission, KU was formally founded by an act of Parliament in 1990. Academic programs began on 31 August 1991 with four disciplines: Computer Science and Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, and Urban and Rural Planning. The university has since expanded to 29 disciplines under eight schools and one institute.

Timeline Highlights

• 1974: Recommendation for university establishment.
• 1987: Government finalized plans.
• 1989: Foundation stone laid by President Ershad.
• 1990: KU Act passed in Parliament.
• 1991: Academic activities inaugurated by PM Begum Khaleda Zia.
• 1997-2019: Multiple convocations held reflecting growth and development.

Administration and Leadership

Vice-Chancellors have included Golam Rahman (first VC), Golam Ali Fakir, S M Nazrul Islam, Jafor Reza Khan, Md Saifuddin Shah, Mohammad Fayek Uz Zaman, Mahmood Hossain, and current VC Md. Rezaul Karim.

Schools and Disciplines

SET School

• Architecture
• CSE
• ECE
• Math, Physics, Chemistry, Statistics
• Urban and Rural Planning

Life Science School

• Agrotechnology, BGE
• Environmental Science, Fisheries & Marine Resources Technology
• Forestry & Wood Technology, Pharmacy
• Soil, Water and Environment

Other Schools

• School of Management & Business Administration (BA, HRM)
• Social Science School (Economics, Development Studies, Sociology, MCJ)
• Arts and Humanities School (Bangla, English, History and Civilization)
• School of Law
• Fine Arts School (Drawing, Print-Making, Sculpture)
• Education School (Institute of Education and Research)

Academic Degrees Offered

Degrees range from Bachelor’s (BSc, BBA, BFA, LLB) to Master’s (MSc, MBA, MFA, LLM) and Doctoral (PhD) programs across all disciplines. Specialized degrees include BArch, BURP, MURP, PGDIT, and MEd.

Campus and Facilities

KU campus features academic buildings, central and departmental libraries (including Wi-Fi hotspots), a central mosque and temple, and a central gymnasium. Notable landmarks include Adamya Bangla sculpture and Kotka monument.

Student Accommodation

• Male Halls: Khan Jahan Ali Hall, Khan Bahadur Ahsanullah Hall, Birsherestho Muhammad Ruhul Amin Hall
• Female Halls: Aparajita Hall, Bijoy 24 Hall
• Two additional halls under construction.

Research and Academic Features

KU emphasizes research with specialized labs in GIS, RS, ICT, and biotech. Notable research areas include Sundarbans biodiversity, fisheries, aquaculture, coastal management, environmental science, electronics, and communication engineering. KU faculty and students participate in national and international competitions, earning awards in Olympiads and physics competitions.

Library

The central library has over 25,000 items, with reading space for 150 users, offering digital resources and internet connectivity. It is part of BANSLINK and BERNET networks for academic connectivity.

Religious Facilities

Central Mosque: A 14,500 sq ft, single-dome mosque accommodating 2,000 worshippers. Inaugurated in 2020. Central Temple: 1,100 sq ft structure inaugurated in 2020 for Hindu students, hosts Saraswati Puja and Diwali.

Khulna University - Advancing Knowledge and Society

Islamic University, Bangladesh: Detailed Guide

About Islamic University, Bangladesh

Islamic University, Bangladesh (IU), also known as Islamic University, Kushtia, is a public PhD-granting research university located in Kushtia, Bangladesh. Founded in 1979 and formally opened in 1986, it is the largest seat of higher education in the southwest of the country. IU is unique for its programs in Theology alongside Engineering, Science, Arts, Social Sciences, Business, Biological Sciences, and Law. It is financed by the Government of Bangladesh through the University Grants Commission.

History of IU

Islamic University was planned in 1976 and formally founded in 1979 at Shantidanga-Dulalpur, Kushtia-Jhenidah, by President Ziaur Rahman. Its initial aim was to integrate Islamic and general education. The Islamic University Act was passed in 1980. Initially, it operated with two faculties and four departments with 300 students. The university shifted to Gazipur in 1982, returned to Kushtia in 1988, and has expanded greatly since then. By 2025, it has 38 departments across 9 faculties and several institutes, including the pioneering Institute of Islamic Education and Research.

Faculties and Departments

IU has 9 faculties with 38 departments. The Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies offers courses in Al-Quran, Dawah, Al-Hadith, and Comparative Tafsir. Other faculties include Engineering and Technology, Biological Sciences, Sciences, Business Administration, Arts, Social Sciences, Law, and Islamic and Comparative Religion. Degrees range from Bachelor's to PhD, taught in English, Arabic, and Bengali depending on the department.

Campus and Facilities

The campus features multiple academic buildings, including ten-story under-construction facilities, libraries, research institutes, halls of residence, cafeterias, and dedicated transportation with over 40 buses. It has a central library named 'Khademul Haramain Badshah Fahd bin Abdul Aziz Central Library' with thousands of books, journals, and an advanced E-Library. Each department and residential hall also has its own library facilities.

Student Life

IU has over 16,000 students. It offers eight halls of residence (five for males, three for females), health services with a 24/7 medical center, a central cafeteria, and regular bus service to Kushtia and Jhenaidah. Sports facilities include football and cricket grounds, a gymnasium, tennis courts, and venues for basketball and badminton. The university also has cultural groups such as the Islamic University Theatre.

Research and Innovations

IU has an established reputation for research with PhD programs and dedicated facilities such as the ICE Innovation Lab. It publishes journals like the Journal of Islamic University and department-specific research bulletins. Faculty members have been recognized in global scientist rankings, and students have designed innovative security systems and robots.

Admissions

Undergraduate admissions are competitive with unit-based entry tests covering subjects relevant to the chosen faculty. Graduate, MPhil, and PhD admissions require interviews and/or written tests. The university also runs diploma programs in Library Science and Chinese Language through the Institute of Islamic Education and Research and welcomes international students via its dedicated International Student Affairs & Admission Cell.

Rankings and Partnerships

IU is ranked in the 4000s globally by QS and other agencies. It maintains partnerships and MoUs with universities in the USA, Japan, Australia, Turkey, India, and more, promoting academic exchange and research collaboration.

Keywords: Islamic University Bangladesh, IU Kushtia, public research university, theology education, higher education Bangladesh, IU ranking, IU faculties, student life at IU

Jahangirnagar University: Complete Guide

What is Jahangirnagar University?

Jahangirnagar University (JU) is a fully residential public research university located in Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Established in 1970, it is renowned for its beautiful campus, academic excellence, and active student life.

How big is the JU campus?

JU's campus spans nearly 700 acres, making it one of the largest in Bangladesh. The campus is known for its scenic beauty, lakes, and rich biodiversity that attract thousands of migratory birds each year.

What facilities does JU offer?

JU features a large central library with over 110,000 books, modern research centers, a teachers-student center (TSC), and 21 residential halls ensuring housing for all students. It also has a medical center, cultural venues, and sports facilities.

What academic programs and faculties does JU have?

JU has 36 departments under six faculties, including Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Biological Sciences, Business Studies, and Law. It also has specialized institutes like the Institute of Business Administration and Institute of Information Technology.

What research and institutes are at JU?

JU supports advanced research through centers like the Wazed Miah Science Research Centre and the Wildlife Conservation and Research Centre. It has a butterfly park for biodiversity studies and has contributed significantly to archaeology with findings like the Wari-Bateshwar site.

How does JU rank globally?

JU is highly ranked among Bangladeshi universities. In Times Higher Education rankings, it is placed 801–1000 globally and is often ranked first in Bangladesh. QS Rankings also place it among the top universities in Asia and Southern Asia.

What is student life like at JU?

Student life at JU is vibrant, with cultural groups, debating clubs, sports activities, and scenic spots like lakes and gardens. The university holds fairs, cultural festivals, and has dedicated spaces like the Zahir Raihan Auditorium and Muktomoncho for events.

Keywords: Jahangirnagar University, JU, Bangladesh universities, public research university, Dhaka education, higher education in Bangladesh

University of Chittagong: Complete Guide

What is the University of Chittagong?

The University of Chittagong (CU) is a major public research university in Bangladesh, established in 1966. Located in Chittagong, it is the country's largest university by campus size and one of its oldest, known for academic excellence and natural beauty.

How big is the CU campus?

CU's campus spans over 2,300 acres, making it the largest in Bangladesh. It includes academic buildings, research centers, museums, libraries, residential halls, and scenic natural areas, providing a spacious environment for learning and research.

What facilities does CU offer?

CU offers a large central library with over 350,000 items, a university museum with historical artifacts, a medical center with free care for students and staff, and 14 residential halls for male and female students. The campus also features its own shuttle train service connecting to Chittagong city.

What academic programs and faculties does CU have?

CU has 54 departments under 10 faculties, including Arts, Law, Science, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Engineering, Biological Sciences, Education, Medicine, and Marine Science and Fisheries. It also has seven institutes and six research centers supporting advanced studies and innovation.

What is student life like at CU?

Student life at CU is active and diverse, with a variety of cultural events, student clubs, and sports facilities. The university's shuttle trains, famous for their graffiti art, provide a unique aspect of campus culture. Residential halls support thousands of students with comfortable accommodations.

Who are some notable people from CU?

CU has produced many prominent alumni and faculty, including Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, physicist Jamal Nazrul Islam, and artist Murtaja Baseer. Its graduates hold key positions in government, academia, business, and the arts both in Bangladesh and abroad.

Keywords: University of Chittagong, CU, Bangladesh universities, public research university, Chittagong education, higher education in Bangladesh

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET): Complete Guide

What is BUET?

BUET is Bangladesh’s premier public technological research university, located in Dhaka. Established in 1876 as the Dacca Survey School and becoming BUET in 1962, it is the oldest institution in the country for engineering, architecture, and urban planning education.

How was BUET founded?

BUET started as the Dacca Survey School, later renamed Ahsanullah School of Engineering in 1908. It became Ahsanullah Engineering College in 1947 and was upgraded to East Pakistan University of Engineering and Technology in 1962. After Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, it was renamed BUET.

What is the campus like?

Located in the Palashi area of Dhaka, BUET’s urban campus features modern academic buildings, student halls, sports fields, and libraries. It is a hub for engineering education with specialized labs, research centers, and a strong academic community.

What academic programs and faculties does BUET have?

BUET has six faculties and 18 departments covering fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, materials engineering, architecture, and urban planning. It offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees and is known for its rigorous curriculum.

What research and institutes are at BUET?

BUET hosts eight institutes including Water and Flood Management, Appropriate Technology, ICT, Disaster Prevention, Nuclear Power Engineering, and Robotics and Automation. Its research centers work on energy, environment, and disaster safety projects.

How does BUET rank globally?

BUET consistently ranks among the top universities in Bangladesh and South Asia. According to QS World University Rankings 2024, it is ranked #801–850 globally and #187 in Asia.

How does admission work at BUET?

Admission is highly competitive. Students must excel in HSC exams and pass a rigorous written entrance test. Around 1,300 students are selected annually based on merit. There are also seats for international students.

What is student life like at BUET?

BUET has nine residential halls, cultural and academic clubs, and sports facilities. Student life includes robotics clubs, debating societies, art groups, and athletics. Political activities on campus are banned to maintain a focused academic environment.

Keywords: BUET, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, engineering education, Dhaka university, public research university, Bangladesh higher education