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Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has stressed the importance of research, innovation, and technology-driven education to make the country’s higher education system more modern and employment-oriented. He said that a certificate-based education system alone would not be enough to survive in future global competition. According to him, the country must move beyond the traditional culture of rote learning and build a skill- and innovation-based education system.

He made these remarks on Tuesday morning while addressing a workshop titled “Transforming Higher Education in Bangladesh: Roadmap to Sustainable Excellence” held at the Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of University of Dhaka as the chief guest.

The Prime Minister said the world has already entered the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and quantum computing are shaping future employment and economies. Therefore, students must focus not only on academic knowledge but also on acquiring practical skills.

He stated that the government is working to strengthen coordination between universities and industries. Alongside incorporating industry demands into academic curricula, initiatives have been taken to expand apprenticeship programs, internships, and hands-on learning opportunities. There are also plans to connect universities in divisional cities with local businesses and industries.

Referring to unemployment among graduates, the Prime Minister said that although a large number of students graduate from universities every year, many still fail to secure jobs. One of the main reasons behind this, he noted, is the lack of practical skills. He emphasized that the problem cannot be solved without modern education and career-oriented training.

He also expressed concern over the global rankings of the country’s universities. According to him, Bangladeshi universities need to make greater progress in research, publications, innovation, and citations. Without a strong research-oriented environment, competing internationally will remain difficult.

The Prime Minister further said that the government has taken initiatives to introduce seed funding and innovation grants to help students become entrepreneurs. There are also plans to establish innovation and entrepreneurship development institutes and science parks at universities. In addition, greater importance is being placed on science fairs and project-based innovation programs.

Highlighting the potential of the country’s talented youth, he said that with proper opportunities and support, Bangladeshi students would be capable of making significant contributions to world-class innovation and research. At the same time, he urged students to preserve social and moral values alongside technological advancement.