KUSHTIA, Aug 01, 2026 (BSS) – University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Professor Dr Mamun Ahmed today stressed the need for transforming universities into centres of skilled human resource development instead of merely degree-awarding institutions.

"The government and the UGC are working together to equip students with essential soft skills, and a nationwide soft skills development programme to be launched soon," he said while addressing the central orientation programme for first-year undergraduate students of the 2025-26 academic session at Islamic University as the special guest.

Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon joined the programme virtually as the chief guest, while Adviser for Education and Primary and Mass Education Mahdi Amin attended it as a special guest.

The UGC chairman said graduates must acquire digital literacy, communication skills and critical thinking abilities along with academic knowledge to compete in the job market.

He said the government is modernising higher education through technology so that students can develop the skills and competencies required for employment.

Dr Mamun said all public universities would gradually be brought under a digital transformation programme through uninterrupted Wi-Fi connectivity, smart classrooms and, eventually, fully digital campuses to ensure equal access to global knowledge and research facilities.

He also announced plans to introduce mandatory internships to strengthen the linkage between higher education and employment.

He said internship opportunities would be created in public and private industries with financial support, enabling students to gain practical workplace experience before completing their graduation.

"There is no alternative to hard work, discipline and moral values for achieving success alongside academic excellence," he said, urging students to prepare themselves as responsible citizens for the future.

Islamic University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr AKM Matinur Rahman chaired the programme.

He sought UGC support for constructing a boundary wall to enhance campus security, building a permanent stadium, upgrading the university's access road and addressing the shortage of teachers.